Middle Tennessee Electric’s rates are about 25 percent lower than the national average. However, seasonal high or low temperatures can easily cause larger electric bills due to greater consumption, no matter the rates. Middle Tennessee is now on the cusp of hot and humid conditions with the arrival of summer months; changes you make now can have a big impact on the potential for high bills later. MTE, your Trusted Energy Adviser, offers tips and strategies to help you save energy and money while still staying comfortable during air-conditioning season.
To save even more, arrange for a home energy checkup to find out where you can save the most. Give us a call, and we’ll have one of our energy services coordinators review your home for ways to help you save energy. Summer brings hot, humid weather and pesky mosquitoes. We can’t stop the heat or bug bites, but we can reduce the sting of your monthly bill.
1. Set the thermostat to the highest comfortable setting.
Moving the thermostat up just 1 degree could save about 3 percent on your cooling costs.
2. Change your air filters regularly.
Clogged filters can raise energy costs due to inefficiency and reduce the life span of your unit.
3. Close your blinds and drapes on the sunny sides of the house.
More shade and less direct sunlight will help keep room temperatures down with minimal cooling.
4. Set your thermostat higher while your house is empty.
Your air conditioner won’t have to work as hard, and a programmable thermostat can be set to start cooling the house before you get home.
5. Do not block air vents with furniture or other items.
Clear vents ensure maximum airflow and efficiency.
6. Set ceiling fans to medium speed and blow the air down.
Fans spinning counterclockwise allow the air in the room to circulate and make you feel cooler.
7. Wash full loads of clothes in cold water.
Cold water keeps your water heater from running while still getting the job done.
8. Keep your freezer full.
Keeping your freezer stocked will allow it to run more efficiently to save energy.
9. Dry multiple loads of laundry consecutively to harvest heat from the previous load.
Save heat, save electricity, save money. If you are able, consider drying clothes outside.
10. Cook defrosted food.
This method uses one-third less energy and heat than starting with frozen food.
For more savings tips and energy-efficiency advice, check out MTEMC.com/Tips. To speak with an MTE energy services coordinator, call your local office.
Rutherford and Cannon counties
David Willhite
615-494-1612
David.[email protected]
Williamson County
Lynn Borum
615-595-4664
[email protected]
Wilson County
Phillip Price
615-453-3077
[email protected]
