Staying Cool While Staying Energy-Efficient

The National Weather Service in Moon Township said temperatures would hover in the high 80s over the weekend.

"When I say it might cool off, I mean it will be in the upper 80s," meteorologist Rihaan Gangat said, adding that today and Monday will see 90-degree weather, too.

In the next week though, the high-pressure system that has caused the heat wave will slowly move west, bringing in more comfortable weather — with temperatures hovering in the 80s.

Until then, if it gets too hot for your tastes, here are some tips from Duquesne Light on how to cope without your electricity bill soaring like the mercury:

Put Your Air Conditioner in the Shade

If you position your air conditioner on the north side or shady side of your home — away from the direct rays of the sun — it doesn’t have to work as hard to keep your home cool.

Give Your Air Conditioner Room To Breathe

Don’t let shrubs block the intakes on your air conditioning unit. They reduce airflow and make your air conditioner work harder. Also, keep the area around your air conditioner free from leaves and other debris that can limit air circulation.

Close The Blinds

During the day, close curtains and blinds to keep sunlight from heating up your house. At night, when it’s cooler, open windows and shut your air conditioner off.

Think About A Fan

On cooler days, a fan cools your home quickly and efficiently. Fans use considerably less energy than air conditioners.

Turn Up That Thermostat

Most homes are still comfortable at a temperature of 78 degrees. Every degree you raise your thermostat cuts your energy consumption up to 4 percent, according to the U.S. Department of Energy.

Put In A Clean Filter

Dirty filters in your cooling system can cut efficiency. Install new filters or clean the filters regularly on central air conditioning systems and on window units.

Get A Cooling System Tune-Up

Properly functioning equipment uses less energy. Have your cooling system serviced at the beginning of each season.