Reduce warm weather energy costs with tips from Delmarva Power

Spring is in the air which means now is the time to prepare for the warmer weather ahead. With an increase in temperatures comes increased energy usage, and Delmarva Power is providing energy-saving tips to help customers lower costs and ensure their homes and businesses are energy efficient before temperatures rise:

• Set the thermostat temperature to 70 degrees or higher during the summertime, if health permits. By turning the thermostat up 7 to 10 degrees for eight hours a day from its normal setting, consumers can save as much as 10% a year on cooling costs

• Air conditioning units should be inspected, serviced cleaned and maintained by a professional to ensure everything is running smoothly. Air filters should be changed regularly

• Using an infrared thermometer to test a home’s energy efficiency on a warm day, measure the temperature at the air vent with a digital reader. Blowing vents should measure 55 to 65 degrees. Inside air should measure approximately 20 degrees warmer than what the vent is reading

• Track usage, monitor and manage energy use through Delmarva Power’s My Account feature. Consumers can receive notifications if energy usage increases

• To keep cool air in and hot air out, use caulking or weather-stripping around drafty windows and doors. To keep the hot sun out and reduce cooling costs, invest in awnings or keep blinds or shades closed during the hottest times of the day.

For more information, go to delmarva.com.