JACKSON, MS (Mississippi News Now) -
With summer just around the corner we're feeling the sun's intense heat regularly. With it warming up you may feel like magically blurring out the amount on your utility bill as your monthly energy costs rise too.
"Temperatures are going up, usage is going up therefore your bills going to go up," said Napoleon Johnson, the Vice President of Customer Operations for Entergy Mississippi.
Johnson said you can combat higher monthly energy rates without spending a penny.
"There are a lot of things, simple things that people can do to reduce their bills," Johnson told WLBT News.
A simple energy saving tasks involves flipping the switch on your thermostat.
"A lot of people don't realize a major part of their cost, utility bills is associated with heating and cooling of their homes," said Johnson.
One of the most significant things you can do to conserve energy and money this summer is to make sure your thermostat is set at 78 degrees or higher. Every degree below 78 could cost you an additional 3 percent on your monthly bill.
Moving the thermostat dial up to 78 degrees can save you up to 15 percent monthly. Plus running fans with the air conditioner can keep you feeling cooler.
"Even if you don't have ceiling fans you can buy boxed fans to help circulate the air," Johnson told WLBT News.
Another simple money saving tip is through your windows.
"Close the blinds in your house if your house faces the sun close the shades," said Johnson.
The simple act of shutting your shades can reduce heat up to 45 %, which in return saves you some cash. Your bill could also drop using tools like caulk on windows and doors to seal leaks. Again, this saves a bit monthly but accumulates to big savings year-round.
For additional energy saving tips go to Entergy's website at http://www.entergy-mississippi.com/your_home/save_money/.
Copyright 2012 WLBT. All rights reserved.
WLBT 3 - Fox 40
