June 21: Three Degrees of Preparation

Three Degrees of Preparation:
Turn Up the Thermostat on June 21
Mother Earth News: 6.16.2011 by Robyn Griggs Lawrence

June 21 is the longest day of the year, the first official day of summer—and an opportunity to start a new summer tradition. American Home Shield is spearheading an effort to get Americans to raise their home thermostats three degrees on this day, for Three Degrees of Preparation.

“Three degrees can make a significant impact; some utility companies report that every degree below 78 can add more than 6 percent to your home’s cooling costs,” says American Home Shield president Dave Crawford. “We’re asking homeowners to give the adjustment a test on the first day of summer, June 21, and participate in Three Degrees of Preparation. Your family will probably not notice the difference in temperature, but make the adjustment a daily routine and you should notice it on your next energy bill.”