Keep air conditioning thermostats at 78 degrees or higher during summer months.
Install programmable thermostats.
Clean and replace air conditioner filters regularly.
Have your A/C unit serviced on a regular basis.
Replace old inefficient A/C unit with new high efficiency unit (new A/C unit use up to 40% less energy then older units).
Use ceiling fans or portable fans to reduce the workload of your A/C unit.
Avoid using evaporative coolers or humidifiers at the same time an air conditioner is running.
Caulk and weather strip doors and windows.
Insulate your attic and install attic vents to reduce the amount of heat trapped in the attic.
Use blinds, curtains or awnings to block sunlight from heating your home during the summer. Allow sunlight to heat your home during the winter.
Use nonessential appliances such as clothes washers, dryers and dishwashers during off-peak hours (before noon or after 6:00 p.m.) Wash only full loads of dishes and clothes.
Run swimming pool equipment for the minimum amount of time, and during off-peak hours.
Use compact fluorescent or LED bulbs instead of incandescent bulbs to reduce energy costs.
Turn off lights when leaving a room.
Insulate the hot water piping from the water heater to the wall or ceiling pipe penetration. Wrap the tank in an insulating blanket if the water heater’s energy factor is less than 0.59.
Plug home electronics, such as computers, TVs and VCRs, into power strips and turn power strips off when equipment is not in use. Many electronics still drain power even when turned off.
Lower the thermostat on the hot water heater to 115-120 degrees.
Use solar powered or low voltage outdoor lighting around the exterior of your home.
Use a timer or photocell to control your outdoor lighting.
