Summer time electricity saving tips

Following these suggestions can help save up to 15 percent on home cooling costs.

1. Keep thermostats at a constant, comfortable level (75 to 78 degrees) when at home. Lowering the thermostat setting below the desired temperature will not cool the home faster.
2. To reduce heat and moisture during the warmest part of the day, run appliances such as ovens, washing machines, dryers and dishwashers in the early morning or evening hours when it's generally cooler outside. Also, use a microwave to cook, or barbecue outside, if possible.
3. Keep shades, blinds and curtains closed. About 40 percent of unwanted heat comes through windows. Simply drawing blinds and curtains, which act as a layer of insulation, can reduce heat gain to your home. Awnings are even better, and can reduce heat gain by up to 75 percent. Window coatings and window film can reflect as much as 80 percent of direct rays from the sun.
4. Turn off all unnecessary lighting and appliances, which add heat to the home.
5. Keep doors to the outside, garage or attic firmly closed to keep cool air in and hot air out.
6. Use fans to evenly distribute cool air and reduce the air conditioner's "on" time.
7. Place window air conditioners on the north or shady side of the house to avoid overworking the unit in the hot daytime sun.
8. When shopping for appliances such as refrigerators, freezers and air conditioners, look for the ENERGY STAR label, and purchase the most affordable energy-efficient unit. Newer more energy-efficient models lower monthly operating costs.