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Keep
your thermostat set at 78 degree Fahrenheit;
or higher, and on "auto," not "on." Each
degree can mean up to 9% savings on cooling
costs. |
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If
your central or room air conditioner is
more than 10 years old, it could be doubling
your cooling costs. |
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Use
ceiling fans to circulate air. They use
about as much electricity as a light bulb
and can make you feel comfortable at higher
thermostat settings. Oh, and do not forget
to turn fans off when you leave the room. |
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Clean
or replace your air conditioner filter monthly
so your A/C runs efficiently. |
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Plan
ahead! Schedule heat-producing activities
like laundry, ironing, and cooking at cooler
times of day when possible. |
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Turn
off lights when not needed, especially incandescent
and halogen types. |
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Be
aware of temperatures! If it's cooler inside
than outside, then close all windows and
drapes. If it's cooler outside, open everything
up to ventilate and let the outside air
cool your house. |
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Use
drapes, shades, awnings and reflective materials
to reduce the heat entering through glass. |
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Use
room exhaust fans in the kitchen, laundry
and bathroom to pull hot, humid air up and
out. |
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Apply
weather stripping and caulking around all
doors and windows to keep the chilled air
inside your house. |
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Install
a setback thermostat (Clock thermostat)
that automatically switches your air conditioner
to a higher cooling setting while you are
away. |
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Other Tips |