RAPID CITY, S.D. – August 14, 2020 – Many areas throughout the upper Midwest are experiencing warmer temperatures this summer and the Black Hills is no exception. As temperatures rise, Black Hills Energy knows how important it is for you to stay cool, while also being mindful of energy costs.

Here are a few tips that will help you cool your home without affecting your pocketbook.

• Set your thermostat as close to 78 degrees or as high as you can to stay comfortable. Use fans to circulate cool air.
• Position lamps, computers, and televisions away from your thermostats.
• Install a programmable thermostat. Program your air conditioning to use less energy for cooling when you are away or sleeping.
• Use a microwave instead of a conventional oven or range top. Conventional ovens create more heat in the kitchen than microwave ovens.
• Avoid running heat-producing appliances (ovens, clothes dryers, dishwashers) during the hottest times of the day.
• Keep sunny windows covered with blinds or draperies.
• Install light-colored window shades to reflect heat away from your house.
• Replace your air conditioning filters at least once a month. Make sure your air conditioner is fully charged with coolant and properly serviced and that the area around it is free of weeds. Black Hills Energy offers air conditioning service checks and repairs. Go to www.blackhillsenergy.com for more information or to schedule an appointment.

Another option for keeping your bills low in peak temperatures is to sign up for Black Hills Energy’s budget bill payment options.  This allows you to spread your summer energy costs throughout the year. Call 888-890-5554 or go to www.blackhillsenergy.com, and click on payment options to learn more about budget billing and other services, including how to begin receiving and paying your bill online.