Cut Air Conditioning Costs this Summer

Making wise use of your air conditioner will help you save the most on your energy bill during the summer. The following tips can help you stay comfortable, while keeping your cooling costs under control.

• Set your air conditioner to the warmest temperature that feels comfortable.
• Save energy by turning your air conditioner off during cooler weather.
• Turn up the temperature on the thermostat before leaving home. If you have a programmable thermostat, use it to automatically adjust the temperature and save energy when no one is home.
• Use fans along with, or instead of, your air conditioner to make your home feel cooler. Fans use far less electricity than air conditioners. A ceiling fan will allow you to raise the thermostat setting by about 4° F with no reduction in comfort! Just remember to turn the fan off when you leave the room.
• During the day, keep shades and curtains closed on the sunny side of the house to reduce heat caused by sunlight.
• Make sure that windows and doors are closed tightly while your air conditioner is running.
• Replace or clean your window or central air conditioning filters once a month or as directed by the manufacturer. Dirty filters restrict air flow and increase energy use.

High Price Period Tips

• Central AC: Temporarily turn up the temperature on the thermostat.
• Window AC: Temporarily turn up the temperature setting or turn off window units.