• Close windows, drapes, shades and blinds to keep the sun out – especially on the west and south sides of your home or office.
  
  
• Use air conditioners that are ENERGY STAR® rated.
  
  
• Use a programmable thermostat and set the temperature higher when you are away from home and cooler before you return.  If you use a window air conditioner, set the timer to turn on shortly before you expect to be home.
  
  
• Check that no objects are blocking the air vents, preventing cooling.
  
  
• Clean dirt and leaves off of air conditioner coils on outside units to improve air flow.
  
  
• Clean or replace filters on central air units, furnaces and air handlers frequently.
  
  
• Regulate humidity in the home.  Dry air is easier to cool.
  
  
• Use natural lighting and limit the use of electric light that may emit heat.
  
  
• If you do not have an air conditioner, use window fans to blow warm air out of your home.  Use house and ceiling fans to keep the air circulating.
  
  
• Close the doors and shut off registers in rooms that are not used.
  
  
• Cook with small appliances or outside rather than using the stove or oven.
  
  
• Use cold water for doing laundry and washing dishes.
  
  
• Dry clothes outside.
  
  
• If using a clothes dryer, make sure to clean the lint out of the dryer.
  
  
• Stay away from direct heat and wear lighter and looser-fitting clothing.
  
• Drink plenty of fluids and stay hydrated.

For more tips on staying cool during the warmer months, please visit Focus on Energy’s summer energy saving tips fact sheet.