As the summer temperatures rise across the state, Alabama Power offers helpful tips on ways to conserve energy and reduce costs on electricity bills.

Air conditioning:

Your air conditioner is the biggest source of electricity during the summer. In many homes, air conditioning costs can account for more than half the electric bill.

   1.  Clean or change your air conditioner filter regularly.  A dirty
       filter cuts down on air flow and reduces efficiency.

   2.  Set the thermostat at 78 degrees or slightly higher.  The monthly
       savings could be between 3 percent and 5 percent.  Raise the
       thermostat even higher when away from home for extended periods, but
       not more than 5 degrees higher.

   3.  When buying a new air conditioning unit or heat pump, select one
       with a higher Seasonal Energy Efficiency Rating.  The higher the SEER,
       the more efficient the unit.

  Curtains, lights and ceiling fans
   4.  Close drapes or blinds during the day to reduce heat from direct
       sunlight. Use fans to circulate air. Install ceiling fans (clockwise
       rotation) in rooms frequently used.

   5.  Use fluorescent lights instead of incandescent lamps when
       possible.  Fluorescent lights last about 10 times longer and produce
       more light for the same amount of energy.

  Insulation

Proper insulation can make a big difference in keeping a house cooler in the summer. Insulation is measured in R-value. The higher the R-value, the better the insulation.

   6.  Add insulation in the attic.  Better attic insulation can save as
       much as 30 percent on cooling and heating costs.  Experts recommend
       insulation with an R-value of R-30 in ceiling areas.

   7.  Make sure exterior windows and doors close snugly.  Apply weather
       stripping and caulking where needed.

For more information on saving energy and cutting costs on your monthly bill, contact Alabama Power at 1-800-990-APCO (2726).

Alabama Power, a subsidiary of Atlanta-based Southern Company , provides reliable, affordable electricity to more than 1.3 million customers across the state.

SOURCE: Alabama Power Company