Summer in Michigan brings heat and humidity. As the outdoor temperatures climb, so does your energy use. We have tips to help you manage your energy use including how to take advantage of lower, off-peak rates on these extremely hot days, so you can stay cool and comfortable all summer long.
By taking steps to avoid daily household activities that add extra heat and humidity to your home, especially during very hot times, you can reduce your energy usage and manage your bill. Consider making the following habit changes:
- Cook meals with a microwave, crockpot or outdoor grill instead of your oven, which adds extra heat into your home, especially in the afternoon when outdoor temperatures hit their peak. If you do have to cook in the kitchen, turn on your exhaust fan to move the hot air outside.
- Postpone doing laundry, washing your dishes or running the dishwasher until the evening once outdoor temperatures have cooled down a bit. If you wait until after 7 p.m., you also benefit from a lower electric rate.
- Let your dishes air dry in the dishwasher instead of using the heated drying feature, which can leak heat into your kitchen, raising indoor temperatures and humidity levels.
- Take quicker showers at a cooler temperature than normal. Steaming hot showers fill up your bathroom with hot humid air which can cause your A/C to work harder to cool the room back down.
There are also easy changes you can make to your home and your electronics that drive up energy usage. Try one of these free tools and take control of your energy bill:
- Visit the DTE Marketplace for instant rebates (ie savings!) and free shipping on energy efficient products, such a lightbulbs, programmable and smart thermostats, air purifiers and more.
- Use the Comparison Tool to find and compare the most energy efficient appliance and electronic models for your home.
- For room-by-room tips, rebates and energy efficient product suggestions, visit our online Energy Efficient Interactive Home for more ways to improve your home’s efficiency and keep cool all summer long.
- Download the free DTE Insight app to help track your energy usage, and what’s driving it, this summer so you can take steps to reduce energy use and keep your energy bill low.
As temperatures rise to potentially record-setting levels, staying safe and looking out for friends, family and neighbors is vital. Help protect yourself and others with these tips:
- Wear loose, lightweight, light colored clothing
- Don’t leave people or pets in your car
- Drink plenty of fluids to stay hydrated
- Avoid high energy activity or outdoor work during midday heat, if possible
- Check on family, seniors and neighbors
- Know the signs of heat sickness and watch for heat cramps, heat exhaustion and heat stroke
Extreme heat can be costly and dangerous but being proactive can help save money and keep your loved ones safe.
To learn more about how to stay cool and keep your energy costs down this summer, visit dteenergy.com/summer.
If higher temperatures have caused a spike in your energy bill and you are struggling to make your payment, contact the Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) to see if you meet the federal income guidelines to qualify for State Emergency Relief (SER). SER provides immediate help if you have a past due bill or disconnect notice. DHHS can be reached at 855.275.6424 or newmibridges.michigan.gov.