Stay Cool, Save Energy, Save Money, Protect Our Planet

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It’s been unseasonably hot this year and it’s going to get hotter. If you are like me, it's probably a safe bet that your AC is running most, if not all of the time, and you're feeling concerned about the environmental consequences. Austin Energy, one of the most progressively sustainable electric companies in the country, is one of Austin's best assets. They provide some really helpful electricity saving tips to keep your home cool with less energy, and it's great that most of their suggestions include rebates and tax incentives:

• Replace your AC: Today's ACs use 30-50% less electricity than a 15-year old model. Rebate available.

• Repair ductwork: Ducts in the average home leak 25-30% of air conditioning directly into the attic. Call Austin Energy at 974-7827 for a $50 duct test. Rebate available.

• Install solar screens or solar film on windows hit by direct sunlight: Direct sunlight makes your air conditioner run longer. Solar screens on windows can block out 60% to 70% of sunlight/heat. Rebate available.

• Increase attic insulation: Over time, insulation compresses. The average 15-year old home needs 5 to 8 additional inches. Rebate available.

• Install a radiant barrier: A layer of aluminum foil-type material or special paint across the underside of your attic roof can block out 95% of the heat radiated through the roof. This upgrade makes your attic usable and reduces AC runtime. Rebate available.

• Get an AC check: Dust on AC coils reduces cooling effect as air passes over the coils, causing the unit to run longer than necessary.

• Clean or change air filters monthly: Clean filters decrease your unit's runtime. Filters have a MERV efficiency rating on the package- the higher the rating, the better.

• Replace standard light bulbs with compact fluorescent light bulbs (CFL): ENERGY STAR® compact fluorescent bulbs (CFLs) are 66% more efficient, emit 70% less heat, and last six to ten times longer than standard incandescent bulbs. Coupons and usage tips available

• Use a programmable thermostat: It will automatically adjust the temperature while you're asleep or away, saving you money. Call Austin Energy at (877) 549-2774 or sign-up online for a free, programmable thermostat.

• Manage temperature settings: Set your thermostat at 78 degrees or higher this summer. Each degree cooler than 78 increases your energy use by 6-8%.

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