Here are some tips to save money and energy in warm weather.  The biggest savers are in bold.

• Use electrical appliances at night during the non-peak hours. Spreading out demand controls costs and delays the need for new power plants.
• Set your air conditioner thermostat to 78 oFor higher. You can save one percent on your energy costs for every one degree you increase your thermostat setting.
• Turn off your air conditioner when no one is at home. Use a programmable thermostat to start cooling before you come home.
• Use whole house fan, room fans or ceiling fans instead of air conditioning.
• Use one high-efficiency dehumidifier instead of two or more regular dehumidifiers.
• Use a dehumidifier with a humidistat.
• Replace the most used incandescent bulbs and fixtures with fluorescent.
• Unplug second refrigerator if not in use.
• Pull the shades and close the drapes during the day.
• Cook outside or use your microwave instead of the stove.
• Hang laundry outside to dry.
• Run the dishwasher at night.
• Vacuum in early morning or evening.
• Turn off appliances, including TVs and computers, when not in use.
• Turn off lights when not in use.

Source:  “Energy-Savings Tips for Warm Weather,” Madison Gas & Electric Company, www.nge.com.