Spring is in the air, and as the temperatures rise, so will energy use.

As we get into the summer months, your electric bill may be slightly higher than normal. More than likely, your air conditioning use is higher, refrigerators and freezers are working harder, and if you have swimming pool or spa pumps, they may be working a little more than usual, as well. You don't have to be an energy expert to reduce your energy use and save money. Review the following tips to determine which will work best for your household.

Discipline Not Dollars

These tips won't cost you anything — only commitment.

• During the day, give appliances like stoves, dishwashers and dryers a rest. These appliances give off heat while in use, and can cause your air conditioner to work a littler harder. This time of year is a great time to enjoy light, no-cook foods like salads and sandwiches. Not big on sandwiches? Plan meals so several foods can cook at the same time, reducing the amount of time your stove is in use.
• Have your air conditioning system checked at least once or twice a year. Proper maintenance and cleaning can make a big difference on your system's productivity. Changing filters and cleaning coils severely reduces dirt build up. You could lose between 10-20 percent of cooling efficiency if dirt is allowed to build up over a period of time.
• Keep your air conditioning temperature at 78 degrees or higher. Keep all doors and windows shut, and try not to block airflow.
• Keep blinds closed and curtains drawn to keep out the mid-day heat.
• Set your water heater controls between 120 and 130 degrees.
• Don't forget to vacuum the coils behind or beneath your refrigerator to keep it operating at maximum efficiency.

A Few Cents Goes a Long Way

These low cost tips can add up to major energy savings.

• Use ceiling or room fans to keep you cooler. Fans circulate the cool air and allow you to set your thermostat at a higher setting. Each degree higher can mean 3-5 percent in energy savings.
• Replace heating and air conditioning filters monthly.
• Keep vegetation trimmed at least two feet from the sides of your outside cooling system unit, and keep trees trimmed at least six feet from the top of the unit.
• Install low-flow showerheads to help conserve hot water usage.
• Install a programmable thermostat. Programmable thermostats give you the freedom to control the temperature to fit your lifestyle. For instance, if no one is at home after 8 a.m. or before 5 p.m., your air conditioner can be set at a higher temperature and lowered to a more comfortable setting just before you return home for the evening.

A little planning and cooperation from the entire family can help you beat the cost of keeping cool during warmer weather. For more information on ways to save or to evaluate your home's energy efficiency, visit our interactive Home Analyzer.