How to keep your electric bill down amid soaring temps in Lincoln

LINCOLN, Neb. (KLKN) – Americans’ electric bills are expected to rise by up to $173 per month this summer, according to the Energy Department.

The Lincoln Electric System said the capital city won’t see too dramatic of a jump.

But if your air condition is running poorly, you could see your electric bill skyrocket.

Kiley Smith, owner of Lincoln-based Command Heating and Air, said maintenance is key to keeping your family cool and your costs down.

“When we design these systems in Lincoln, Nebraska, we design them for 94-degree outdoor temperature, 74 indoor temperatures,” Smith explained. “So, if it is over 94, some houses will never ever keep up, so it’s just going to run and run and run, raising your bill.”

Smith said you can take a garden hose and wash down your AC unit to keep it clear.

“Just by washing out your AC, you can get 3 to 4 more degrees, sometimes even up to 8 if it’s really, really dirty,” he said.

If your system is old or not running properly, you should call a professional.

Smith said you can do little things to keep your home cool during the day, like running your ceiling fan.

“Always tell people, if you have a basement stay down there,” he said. “Keep your blinds closed. That’s the biggest thing, just keeping that sun out.”

Another way to keep costs down is to purchase a smart thermostat.

Smith said if you plan on running your system while you are out of the house, do not keep it any more than 5 degrees warmer than what you are used to.

“People will turn them way up during the day, and then it just plays catch up,” he said. “You lose all that money coming back, so it really doesn’t save you that much money.”

Air conditioners will dehumidify your house, but if it’s trying to work overtime on a hot and humid Lincoln day, it will “struggle till you go to bed,” Smith said.