How to keep power bills low through the summer

AUGUSTA, Ga. (WJBF) – Staying cool is at the top of most people’s minds. But many people are worried about breaking the bank. I spent some time today with a heating and air conditioning expert who shared a few tips to keep AC Units running properly and power bills down.   
  
The heat is on, and keeping cool is a challenge that could be costly. Service Technician Joseph Brantley tells us that changing your filters monthly and getting early maintenance on your air conditioner is vital. He also recommends closing your blinds and doors to try and keep cold air inside your home.   
 
“Maintenance helps with the longevity of the unit itself,” said Joseph Brantley, Service Technician at Busby’s Heating and Air. “We clean up the outside unit, making sure it breathes and is nice and efficient for you. Also, clean out that drain line because during that summertime, like right now, it definitely clogs up a lot.”  
 
Also important —don’t overwork the unit. You can only expect it to lower the temperature in your home by around 20 degrees.   
 
“To try and keep your bill low, like I said, try not to have your temperature so low as it is. If it’s 95 degrees out there, don’t expect it to get about 60 – 65 in there like some people want. Try to keep it at a nice cool temperature 75- 76,” said Brantley. 
 
With the heat rising, power bills are also up. Dymon Miller’s bill has increased by 200 dollars. She lives in a townhouse, so her upstairs doesn’t get as much cool air, which means she has to turn her AC down.   
 
“It’s hard like I’m out here working, I go to school, so like I’m trying to pay my bills take care of my children. Keep them cool during this hot summer,” said Dymon Miller, Resident. 
 
Another person we spoke to says he has seen a slight increase in his bills but is trying to keep it lower as we head into even hotter days.  
 
“I think over last month it was up like 60 – 70 bucks already,” said Michael Wilson, Resident. “Pushing it up and shutting off the rooms when we’re not using them, I mean cause, yeah. It’s going up high right now.”  
 
Using ceiling fans and window units can also help lower the temperature of your home.