Cool Ways to Save Energy and Reduce Summer Electric Bills

Use Less A/C — or None at All

• Shades help keep heat out of the house: keep them closed during the day and open at night.
• A ventilated attic lowers the temperature in the house.
• Open windows allow for cross ventilation.
• Trees on the west side of the house can provide shade, cooling the structure. 
• Fans use 90% less electricity than air conditioning.

Use Room A/C Efficiently

• Cooling units are more efficient when located in a shady area of the house.
• Cool only the space that needs cooling.
• Keep doors and windows closed.
• Close all duct vents.

Use Central A/C More Efficiently

• Keep the shades drawn on the east and west sides of the house.
• Don't run a dehumidifier while the A/C is on.
• Don't run the dishwasher, clothes dryer or other heat producing appliances while the A/C is on.
• Keep the cooled space sealed off from un-cooled space.
• Run bath and kitchen fans sparingly.