Residential

Cooling Tips

Central Air Conditioning Tips

• A Set Comfort Level — Set your air conditioning thermostat to 78° Fahrenheit, a comfortable temperature for most people. Keeping your A/C at a constant temperature could cut your energy costs by as much as 30%.
• Tune-up Time — Clean or replace your air conditioner's filter regularly to help it run more effectively.
• Keep It Clear — Shift heat-producing items away from your thermostat, as heat emitted by television sets, lamps, computers, and other electronics will cause your A/C system to work harder to stay at the optimal temperature.
• Use One at a Time — Do not run evaporative coolers or humidifiers at the same time as your air conditioner, as these are opposite cooling processes and leaks, drafts, and moisture added by humidifiers and evaporative coolers force the air conditioner to use more electricity.
• Keep Cool Air In — Insulate your home and caulk or weather-strip around doors and windows to keep cool air inside and cooling costs down.
• Use Zone Cooling — Close doors and/or vents to rooms that are not frequently used. (To avoid damage to your central cooling system, close off no more than one-fourth of the vents in your home.)

Other Indoor Coolers

• Fans are Cool — Use a portable or ceiling fan to circulate air. Fans cool just the areas you need, and they use less electricity to operate than do air conditioners.
• Windows Cool, Too — During the day time, open windows for cross ventilation and close screens or drapes to shade direct sunlight out and lower your cooling costs.
• Room A/C — Limit using your room air conditioner unit only when the space is occupied and set the thermostat to 78% or higher. If you have a window unit, ensure that the installation is properly insulated, secured, and free of indoor leakage.

Cool Outdoor Tips

• Misty Coolers — Many recreational and some public business centers now offer misty umbrellas or patio areas to help you stay cool while enjoying outdoor activities.
• Stay Hydrated — Drink plenty of water or cool beverages to stay hydrated during the hot summer.
• Dress Appropriately — Wear light-colored light-weight clothing, protective eye wear, and a head covering to help protect your skin, or use an umbrella, especially if you are sensitive to extreme weather.