Wisconsin is getting hit with another round of hot weather, and some simple steps could help keep your home cool and air conditioner working properly.
As the temperatures climb outside, AC units will be getting an extra workout. Kristin Ruesch with the state Public Service Commission says some easy maintenance will help make sure central air units are more efficient, such as cleaning and replacing filters and clearing debris off the coils to keep air flowing over them.
While the air is running, Ruesch says unplugging unused electronics and letting clothes and dishes air-dry can reduce inside sources of heat. She also suggests replacing incandescent light bulbs with compact fluorescent versions, noting that almost 90 percent of the energy used to light traditional bulbs produces heat.
The extra need for cold air in the coming days will increase demand on the power grid as well, although Ruesch says it should not cause any problems. She says Wisconsin has an ample amount of electricity available. In fact, she says weather situations such as this often result in states like Illinois asking Wisconsin to provide them with additional power.
AUDIO: Andrew Beckett reports (1:00)