Rising temperatures and energy rates mean staying cool in Oregon will cost more this year but experts said there are some easy, cheap tricks to help keep your home from feeling like a sauna.

New data show U.S. households are projected to spend nearly $800 on electricity this summer, an 8.5% increase from last year.

Jami Seymore, spokesperson for the Energy Trust of Oregon, said homeowners should think about their homes as whole systems, rather than blasting an air conditioner or fan.

“Each different part of your home plays a role in keeping you cool and comfortable during the summer,” Seymore explained. “The good news is that even small improvements can make a really noticeable difference in both comfort and energy bills.”

Seymore stressed insulation is one of the most important factors in keeping a home cool. For people who cannot add insulation, she noted sealing gaps and cracks can help keep cool air from escaping. The gaps are most often found around doors and windows and can be filled with caulk or weather stripping from a hardware store, she added.

Air filters are another important part of a home’s cooling system. Seymore pointed out dirty filters force air conditioners to work harder to move air, using more energy. She recommended checking filters regularly and changing or cleaning them when they get dirty.

“A good rule of thumb is about every three months,” Seymore advised. “Think of it with the change of seasons. So in perfect timing with us getting into summer, now is a good time to check those filters.”

For larger improvements, such as buying an energy-efficient heat pump, Seymore noted Energy Trust offers incentives to help make upgrades more affordable, and a smart thermostat can also help keep temperatures consistent in different parts of a house.

Source: Public News Service