Summer Energy Savings Tips

Now that summer is in full swing, it's important to remember that on hot, humid days electricity is in big demand. As the day gets warmer, more and more electricity is demanded until a peak demand is reached. Supplying the electricity to meet this peak demand can be very costly. This is why it is very important to limit your use of electricity between 11:00 am and 7:00 pm. Here are just a few ways you can help reduce the cost of electricity for everyone while reducing the demand on our earth's natural resources.

* Try to reduce your air conditioner usage by turning the temperature on your thermostat up. This will allow your air conditioner to run less.

* If you're considering a new central air conditioning unit, find out the unit's Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio (SEER) before you buy. Only consider units with a 12 SEER or more. You'll end up cooling your house for much less money.

* Dehumidifiers should be set to 78% between 11 am and 7 pm.

* When you have a choice, try to use electricity before 11:00 am and after 7:00 pm. Laundry, cooking, dishwasher use, and other electricity using activities can often be done during the cooler parts of the day.

* Water your lawn early in the morning or in the evening. It takes a lot of electricity to pump that water and besides, you'll lose less of it to evaporation.

* Keeping your shades drawn during the day will prevent the sun from warming your house any more than it already is.

* Consider planning for the future and plant a shade tree. In the summer the leaves shade the hot sun from reaching your house. You'll benefit most if you plant them on the south and west sides of your house.