Temperatures in the Chicago area are on the rise and with experts predicting this to be the hottest summer on record, ComEd Energy Doctors and Energy Efficiency (EE) Program are ready to help customers prepare for the extreme heat and keep their energy costs low. ComEd encourages customers to take advantage of its award-winning Energy Efficiency program to save money on their electric bills year round, as well as implement the following tips to prepare for the summer heat:

Use fans to help cool your home.

If you use air conditioning to cool your home, a ceiling fan will allow you to raise the thermostat setting about 4°F with no reduction in comfort.

During summer, adjust your fans counter-clockwise to direct air towards the floor.

Be sure to turn off your ceiling fan when you leave the room. Remember: fans cool people, not rooms, by creating a wind chill effect.

Clean and replace your air filters at least once every three months.

Changing your air filters allows for easier circulation of cool air. Your cooling system energy use could be lowered by up to 15 percent by cleaning or replacing air filters.

Use your windows to keep out heat. 

Install window coverings to prevent heat from getting in through your windows during the day.

Operate your thermostat efficiently. 

If you’re not home for more than 8 hours, consider turning up your thermostat 7 to 10 degrees. 

Also consider turning up your thermostat 3 to 4 degrees overnight while sleeping. 

Swap out traditional light bulbs for LED alternatives.

ENERGY STAR-certified LED light bulbs last 15 times longer than incandescent bulbs. Discounted ENERGY-STAR products offered by ComEd can be found at ComEd Marketplace.

Customers can find other energy efficiency FAQs by visiting ComEd.com/energydoctor.