DETROIT – As summer temperatures begin to dip, many DTE customers may notice changes in their energy bills.
To maximize your dollar, DTE explains how now is the time for customers to check their homes.
Jose Goncalves, manager of energy efficiency at DTE, says homeowners and renters should continue focusing on the “envelope” of their homes — the outer shell including windows and doors. Sealing gaps and drafts helps keep indoor temperatures stable, reducing the workload on heating and cooling systems.
“Look at the outer shell of the home. Simple steps like sealing windows and doors can prevent drafts and help maintain your home’s temperature,” Goncalves said.
Ceiling fans remain a useful tool for comfort on warmer days. They help occupants feel cooler, allowing thermostats to be set at higher temperatures. Goncalves advises turning fans off when rooms are empty to save energy.
Optimizing heating and cooling equipment is also key. Goncalves recommends using programmable or smart thermostats to adjust temperatures efficiently. Programmable thermostats let users set schedules, raising temperatures when away and lowering them before returning home. Smart thermostats learn behavior and can be controlled remotely for added convenience.
DTE’s Smart Savers program continues to offer incentives for customers who allow limited temperature adjustments during extreme heat events. Participants can earn a $50 credit by enrolling and letting DTE control their thermostat for up to four events a year, each lasting up to four hours.
“Smart Savers helps manage energy use during hot days, even as temperatures cool down,” Goncalves explained.
Other simple tips include keeping vents unblocked and using window coverings to block sunlight and reduce heat gain when needed.
Insulation remains crucial for year-round comfort and energy savings. Goncalves recommends about 16 inches of attic insulation in Michigan homes to keep them cooler in summer and warmer in winter. DTE offers rebates up to $400 for attic insulation upgrades.
“Insulation is essential for comfort and energy savings, no matter the season,” Goncalves said.
For those unsure where their homes lose energy, DTE encourages customers to get a professional energy assessment or audit. Using diagnostic tools like infrared cameras, contractors can identify leaks and insulation gaps that are not visible to the naked eye.
“An energy audit provides a roadmap of energy efficiency opportunities, from sealing doors to upgrading HVAC equipment,” Goncalves said.
Sealing doors is a quick, do-it-yourself project that can make a difference. Goncalves points out that even small gaps where light shines through indicate air leaks that cause energy loss.
“Sealing around doors can be done in under an hour and helps keep your home comfortable as temperatures change,” he said.
As the heating season approaches, regular furnace maintenance becomes important. Goncalves advises changing furnace filters every three months and scheduling tune-ups every couple of years to keep units running efficiently. DTE offers rebates for furnace and air conditioning tune-ups.
The efficiency of a furnace is measured by its AFUE rating. Higher ratings mean more heat output per dollar of gas used, which translates to savings.
Customers looking for more energy-saving tips, rebate information, and program details can visit DTE’s website at dteenergy.com/saveenergy.
With summer temps cooling, now is a good time to adjust energy habits and prepare homes for the changing seasons while saving money.