How to save money while staying cool during extreme heat

The extreme heat is forcing many people to find ways to stay cool, and that often sends energy costs up.

[DOWNLOAD: Free WHIO-TV News app for alerts as news breaks ]

As reported on News Center 7 at 5:30 p.m., the key to a hot day is making sure it’s nice and cool inside without breaking the bank.

“You just run the AC. There’s no choice,” Kelly Brogdon, from Englewood said.

Air conditioners all across the Miami Valley are running overtime during this extreme heat.

TRENDING STORIES:

• ‘A real shock;’ Children’s book sparks fire inside minivan, destroys car seat
• School district announces superintendent’s retirement
• Schools closed today ahead of dangerous heat, 3 districts plan early release

Keeping your home cool for yourself or for kids can be easier said than done.

To keep energy costs down, AES Ohio suggests a couple of things.

The first suggestion is to keep the temperature on your thermostat steady.

“If you could do a little bit higher and it’s tolerable, please do that to save on energy,” Mary Ann Kable with AES Ohio said.

Also, be sure to keep your blinds and shades closed.

Avoid using appliances like your oven, dryer and dishwasher during the peak heat of the day.

“There’s also heat emitting from your oven, so you’re actually increasing the temperature in your house, so your air conditioning is running more,” Kable said.

When it comes to meeting increased demand, Kable says AES Ohio is ready.

They expect usage to come below this year’s peak of 153 megawatts and well below the 165 megawatt record set in 2006.

“It’s going to be what it is, and it’s the same for everybody. So you know, you choose. to either be comfortable or not. And that’s kind of what it boils down to,” Brogdon said.

[SIGN UP: WHIO-TV Daily Headlines Newsletter ]