Michigan Heat Wave: How To Save Energy, Money, And Your Sanity

Unless you've been living under a rock (which might not be a bad idea in this weather), it is stupid hot outside. Michigan is in the midst of a heat wave that will see the temperature in the 90s all week, with a heat index of nearly 100 degrees.

AKA: It is dangerously hot and you'll have your AC cranked all week. However, everyone is going to be doing the same thing, which can put a lot of strain on the power grid and run up quite the electric bill.

So, how do you stay cool, stay sane, and not break the bank? Here are a couple of tips.

Close your curtains/blinds

This is one of the easiest and most underrated things you can do to keep out the heat. While it looks gorgeous outside with this summer view, the more light you let in the more heat is also getting it. Blocking it out keeps your place cooler.

Close Vents In Unused Rooms

If you're planning to stay in one room and ride out the heatwave watching the new season of Bridgerton or The Boys, close the vents in other rooms so airflow only goes where it's needed. This will give your AC a break and let you maximize your cool.

Run the Ceiling Fan Counterclockwise

If you don't have AC or want to really save on your AC bill, a ceiling fan is perfect. However, the trick to really maximizing your fan is to run the fan counterclockwise. Consumer's Energy says this pushes air downward to cool more efficiently. After all, heat rises.

Read More: 5 things you're probably googling to combat Michigan's Heat Wave |

Use a modern thermostat

Modern thermostats come with a lot of great perks like temperature regulation and, the one pertinent to saving money, the ability to set your AC to turn on shortly before you get home. This will cool your house down right when it matters and save you money and energy while you're gone. Set your thermostat to 78 while no one is one to save on energy costs.

Limit Energy Use During 2-7 PM

DTE Energy's summer peak hour rate runs from June 1st to September 30th, meaning that energy usage between the times of 2 p.m. and 7 p.m. will cost you extra per kWh. Plan your energy usage and the usage of appliances like dishwashers, ovens, and washing machines for early morning or night.

These are just a few tips to save energy and keep you from going mad from the heat (or your energy bill). Consumer's Energy has a list of over 100 tips if you want to look up more, or you can check out some more recommendations below.

Stay safe, West Michigan.