You can keep cool and save money this summer by following some simple energy-saving advice!

• Turn up your air conditioner to 78F - You can save approximately 7-10% off your cooling for each degree over 78. Make sure that you stay comfortable though.
• When you leave home, set your thermostat up a few degrees.
• Use your ceiling fan and set your thermostat up a few degrees.
• Turn your air conditioner’s fan on auto instead of on. Keeping the air conditioner fan on constantly with automatically increase your bill by $25!
• Keep your A/C filters clean. A dirty air conditioner filter will make your A/C work harder, costing you more money.
• If you suspect your air conditioning system is not cooling properly, have it checked promptly. A unit that is having operational problems can cause extremely high bills.
• Consider upgrading your A/C - ENERGY STAR qualified room air conditioners use 10 to 25 percent less energy than a conventional new model and up to 40 percent less energy than a 10-year-old unit.
• Well thought out plantings can cut your summer cooling and winter heating costs dramatically.
• Keep your windows and blinds closed during the day - By keeping the sun out especially on the west and south side of your home your house will stay cooler.
• Consider replacing your windows with double glazing and spectrally selective coatings that reduce heat gain.

To find out more information on saving money on your electric bill visit your local power company's website or give them a call.

If you are a Progress Energy customer check out this great tool:
Lower My Bill Toolkit - Progress Energy Florida

If you are an OUC customer check out this great tool:
Save Power And Save Money With OUC's Online Home Energy Audit