Happy House

Make your home an MID Happy House. It’s as easy as 1, 2, 3. Your reward: A cooler house that uses less electricity this summer.

Step 1: Air conditioner unit

• Schedule a tune-up for the air conditioner so it runs more efficiently.
  Renters: Discuss a tune-up with your landlord.
• Change or clean filters monthly during the summer.
• Trim bushes away from outside unit.

Step 2: Thermostat

• Keep the thermostat at 78 degrees or higher when you use the air conditioner.
• For each degree you raise your thermostat, you’ll lower your cooling costs by three percent.
• Set the thermostat to 85 degrees or higher if you leave the house.
• A programmable thermostat makes it easy. You won’t forget to change the settings at night or when you leave for work.
  Renters: Discuss installation with your landlord.

Step 3: Easy things to do

• Get rid of the old refrigerator or freezer in the garage. It’s an energy hog, adding an extra $9 to $16 (or more) to your bill each month.
• Use ceiling and room fans. Renters: Discuss with the landlord before installing a ceiling fan.
• Operate the dishwasher only when full, turning off the “dry cycle”.
• Do laundry efficiently - wash full loads.
• Turn off appliances such as lights, the television, fan and stereo when you leave the room for longer than a few minutes.
• As light bulbs burn out, replace them with energy efficient compact fluorescent light bulbs.
• When shopping for new appliances, buy one with an ENERGY STAR® label.
• Use a microwaveinstead of the oven.
• Close drapes and shades before the sun hits the window.
• Install sunscreens or window film on West, East and South windows. Renters: Discuss with your landlord. Rebate information
• Caulk and install weather-stripping around doors and windows. Renters: Discuss with your landlord.

Bonus Step: Make saving energy a habit all year long!