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Message: [QUOTE="Munyaradzi Mafaro, post: 44884, member: 636"] Families across Texas will face tough decisions about air conditioning as record heat arrives this summer. Weather experts predict temperatures will climb past 100 degrees across large parts of America starting June 20. The heat wave will spread from Texas through the Midwest and reach the Northeast during the following week. Some cities like Denver and Philadelphia might see their hottest days of the year. Extreme heat kills more Americans than hurricanes, floods and tornadoes combined. The Department of Energy tells homeowners to set thermostats at 78 degrees for the best balance between comfort and savings. People can save money by raising the temperature to 85 degrees when they leave for work or vacation. Texas Energy says this simple change cuts yearly cooling costs by 10 percent. Opening windows at night might seem smart but often backfires because hot air enters the house. The trapped moisture can damage carpets and furniture. Older adults need extra protection from dangerous heat because their bodies struggle to adjust to temperature changes. Many seniors take medications that affect how their bodies handle hot weather. People with dementia face special risks because they might not realize they are overheating. Families should keep homes cooler when elderly relatives visit or live there. Smart homeowners can slash energy bills without sacrificing comfort through simple tricks. Clean air filters help cooling systems work better and use less electricity. Closing curtains blocks sunlight that heats up rooms during the day. Sealing gaps around windows and doors keeps cool air inside where it belongs. Cooking with microwaves instead of ovens prevents extra heat from building up indoors. [/QUOTE]

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