AUBURN, Ala. (WTVM) – As temperatures climb across Alabama, residents are using more energy to keep their homes cool, which can push power bills higher and strain household budgets.
Alabama households already use about 30% more electricity than the U.S. average year-round, largely due to the state’s climate and heavy reliance on electric heating and cooling. HVAC systems can account for 50% or more of a home’s monthly energy usage.
How to manage your energy use
Energy officials recommend keeping thermostat settings as close to the outside temperature as possible, while accounting for comfort and health needs. The smaller the gap between indoor and outdoor temperatures, the less energy an air conditioning unit uses when it cycles on.
Installing a smart thermostat is another option. Smart thermostats monitor indoor humidity levels, which can make a home feel warmer than the actual temperature. Programmable schedules on smart thermostats can also help control energy use throughout the day…