How to Save Energy in Warm Weather

Everyone wants to save energy, especially in the summer. Saving energy means saving money. Cutting back unnecessary energy use is an easy way to reduce energy consumption while saving money. Here are some steps you can take to save money and energy in warm weather.

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

Instructions

1. Set your air conditioner thermostat to 78 degrees or higher. You can save 1 percent on your energy costs for every one degree you increase your thermostat setting.

2. Turn off your air conditioner when no one is at home. Use a programmable thermostat, if possible, to start cooling before you come home.

3. Use house fans or ceiling fans instead of air conditioning. Have a whole house fan installed. This fan is permanently installed in your attic and pulls cool air into the home through the windows while forcing hot air out through the attic vents.

4. Replace used incandescent bulbs and fixtures with fluorescent lighting.

5. Unplug a second refrigerator or other appliances you are not using.

6. Pull the shades shut and close the drapes during the heat of the day.

7. Cook outside on a grill or use your microwave instead of the stove.

8. Hang laundry on a line outside to dry rather than using the clothes dryer.

9. Turn off appliances, including TVs and computers, when not in use.

10. Turn off lights when you are not in the room.