Use that thermostat Iowa

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(NC)-Have you ever been involved in a family thermostat-war - a situation where you find the temperature in your home to be tropical, while other family members argue the temperature is closer to that of the North Pole? You're not alone. Fortunately, there are certain measures you can take to find a happy temperature medium, and reach a family temperature truce. This summer, consider the following tips provided by Direct Energy.

Think before cooling

Family members who are warm even when the air conditioner is running might consider taking off a layer of clothing or wearing clothes made with breathable fabrics before turning up the air conditioner. Another way to help cool the home without turning down the thermostat is to use ceiling fans when the air conditioner is not on. Doing so will help circulate the air and create a cool breeze while saving energy. Ceiling fans are actually quite energy efficient.

Set it and forget it

Install a programmable thermostat and set it so that the temperature increases slightly at night, when outdoor temperatures decrease. By programming the temperature ahead of time, family members won't be tempted to decrease the temperature on a whim. To save on energy costs, set the temperature above 25 degrees; every degree below 25 degrees will add an extra three to five per cent to your energy bill.

Get outside

There are plenty of ways to cool off in the summer without using the air conditioner. Rather than hibernating inside a refrigerated home, get outside and experience all that summer has to offer like going for a swim or going for a walk by a lake.

More information on this topic is available online at www.directenergy.com or toll-free at 1-888-334-8221.

-News Canada