School and football may be just around the corner, but there’s still plenty of hot weather ahead. Here are some simple tips from Alabama Power to save on energy as temperatures continue to sizzle:

• Clean or change your HVAC filters regularly for proper performance. Doing this can save you 5% to 15% in energy costs. Dirty air filters make your HVAC work harder and reduce air flow. Make sure your air-conditioning unit is inspected and serviced twice a year by a certified technician to ensure that it works properly.

• Close blinds and shades on the sunny side of your home during the day. This minimizes heat from the sun. Use lighter-colored blinds and draperies to repel the sun’s harsh rays.

• Use exhaust fans. Using exhaust fans in the bathroom and kitchen will remove heat, moisture and odors. Do not let the fans run for more than 15 minutes after you’ve finished cooking or showering, or it will waste cooled air. Use a toaster oven instead of the oven, and run your dishwasher, clothes washer and dryer during the cooler time of the day and with full loads to be even more energy efficient.

For more energy-saving tips, please visit www.alabamapower.com/tips. There, you can also take a personalized, online energy checkup.

NOTE TO REPORTERS AND PRODUCERS: Interview clips with Alabama Power energy expert Jim Goolsby are linked and available for use below:

• HVAC system maintenance, efficient appliance use and air sealing.

Alabama Power, a subsidiary of Atlanta-based Southern Company (NYSE:SO), is focused on providing innovative energy solutions to improve customers’ lives. Learn more at www.alabamapower.com.