Cooling down the costs on your energy bill

INDIANAPOLIS (WISH) - More hot weather is expected later this week, and as the heat goes up – so does your energy bill.

24-Hour News 8 found ways you can cool down the cost on that bill in these hot summer months.

John Traub owns Thiele Heating and Air Conditioning in Indianapolis.

“The biggest demand, and month of service is June, as we hit long stretches of extreme heat. All HVAC contractors are extremely busy right now, and a lot of it is due to lack of maintenance and lack of changing filters,” said Traub.

Traub recommends some easy ways to save on energy costs.

Leave interior doors open if possible, to keep air moving around.

Check your air conditioning filters every 60 days.

Clean debris safety from your air conditioning unit.

Keep your garage door shut and your blinds down.

“This time of year, not only do you want this to stop heat from coming in, you also want to stop cool air from getting absorbed through the window. Therefore there’s less pressure on the air conditioner, therefore, saving money on the utility bills,” added Traub.

Mark Hannon of Indianapolis says this was the year his family decided the 20-year-old air conditioning unit should go.

Hannon says the new unit is already saving him $50 a month this summer.

“We're hoping, keeping our fingers crossed, and so far, we’re seeing a reduction in what we pay,” said Hannon.

Other Energy Saving Tips from Indianapolis Power and Light Company:

1.        Turn off unneeded lights and heat-producing appliances.

2.        Clean or replace cooling system filters every 60 days.

3.        Clean leaves, debris and obstructions from the air intake side of air conditioner's or heat pump's outdoor compressor unit. (Make sure the central control switch is "OFF" first.)

4.        Keep windows and doors closed when air conditioning is on.

5.        Use the bathroom exhaust fan when showering or bathing to help eliminate humidity problems.

6.        Landscaping can provide shade to  your home and significantly reduce your cooling costs.

-- www.iplpower.com