Keeping cool, keeping cash in your wallet during summer months and intense heat
WASHINGTON (DC News Now) — The excessive heat watch issued by the National Weather Service could expand this weekend if conditions get worse.
In the meantime, tourists and local residents are still heading outdoors to enjoy the sights, and some may be looking for ways to cut costs. Taking time to shop around and price check can help, as can looking into ways to conserve energy usage.
Take a look at the latest forecast from DC News Now’s weather team here
If you visit a local hardware store and can find small air conditioning units, take a photo of the product’s specifications and compare it to similar products online. Google’s “lens” feature will find them for you, and downloadable browser extensions will scrub websites to find you better prices and potentially get some cash back.
For appliances available for pickup, visit websites for stores such as Lowes or Home Depot.
According to prices published online last week, the lowest-priced portable unit cost $89 but is now $94 at Lowes Friday, while Home Depot’s lowest-priced offer neared $65.
Window air conditioners will run consumers over $100 at those big box hardware stores as well as at Walmart.
Long-term savings can come from “Energy Star” labeled products, which have received federally recognized energy efficiency standards.
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You can also consider opting for a ceiling fan — the US Natural Resource Defense Council says it will feel 10 degrees cooler and use just 10% of the energy needed for central air conditioners.
Cleaning air filters, opting for LED bulbs, moving heat-emitting devices away from thermostats and turning off lights or products you don’t use will also cut energy costs.
Consumers can also call their utility provider and ask about discounts – they may offer programs to cut costs. Most of these programs, however, have income and disability eligibility requirements. Weatherization programs can also bring along discounts.
To save on gas when driving, the US Department of Energy recommends driving with the windows open for a short time to disperse hot air from the interior, don’t idle with A/C on before taking off and try to avoid the lowest temperature setting.
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