8 ways Kentucky and Indiana homeowners can beat the heat and save on cooling bills

LOUISVILLE, Ky. (WDRB) -- Summer is just getting started, and Kentuckiana is bracing a stretch of super hot weather.

Larry Sweeting works in downtown Louisville. Well before lunchtime, he was getting his steps in.

"I normally walk a mile on my 15 minute break. I’m just going to do it earlier like 10:30 or 11," he explained.

While many will seek refuge from the high temps by staying indoors, cranking the air conditioning can also lead to high energy bills.

LG&E and KU spokesman Drew Gardner said a tiny adjustment can make a big difference. "Adjusting your thermostat by 1 degree can save up to 4 to 7 percent on your energy bill."

The utility also recommends checking the entry points into your home including doors and windows to make sure they are sealed. A good seal can prevent the cool air from going out and the hot air from coming in.

Gardner also suggests if you can't stand the heat, get out of the kitchen

"Turning on the oven is going to make your AC work even harder. If you can use a slow cooker or grill outside, those are things that are going to make your HVAC system work not as hard," Gardner explained.

LG&E and KU said it launched a new energy efficient program called "Bring Your Own Thermostat."

If you have a smart thermostat that connects to the Wi-Fi, the utility company can adjust your thermostat during peak usage times, which will help to conserve energy and save you some money.

LG&E and KU said that you will receive an instant $50 rebate when you sign up for the "Bring Your Own Thermostat" Program. For more information, click here.

LG&E offered additional steps to take to keep your home comfortable in the summer.

Seal up leaks: Insulation can help improve you home's efficiency and keep the cool air inside.
Seek some shade: Plant trees or shrubs to shade air conditioning units but do not block the airflow.
Be a fan of fans: Use fans in conjunction with the air conditioning. Spread the cool air more effectively.
Help your thermostat by not putting heat generating appliances too close.
Keep curtains, drapes and blinds closed during the hottest part of the day to prevent the sun's rays from heating your home.

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