BIRMINGHAM - June 26, 2008 - Looking for ways to conserve energy and save money on your power bill?  Alabama Power offers energy-saving tips for the hot summer season:

• Set the thermostat at 78 degrees or slightly higher. You reduce cooling costs each degree you raise your thermostat. While away from home for long periods, raise the thermostat even more.
• Clean or change the air conditioner filter regularly. A dirty filter cuts down on air flow and reduces efficiency.
• Close drapes or blinds during the day to reduce heat from direct sunlight.
• Use room or ceiling fans to circulate air. 
• Use fluorescent lights instead of incandescent bulbs when possible. Fluorescents use up to 75 percent less energy and last 10 to15 times longer.
• Heating and cooling accounts for more than half of a home’s energy use. When buying a new air conditioning unit or heat pump, select one with a higher Seasonal Energy Efficiency Rating (SEER). The higher the SEER, the more efficient the unit.
• Turn down the thermostat on your water heater to 120 degrees. This setting is adequate for most homes with newer dishwashers.
• Use smaller appliances such as crock-pots, toaster ovens and electric skillets whenever possible to save energy.
• Instead of heating the oven on hot days, use the microwave. If you are using the oven, avoid opening the door, which can let out 20 percent of the heat. When using the stovetop, choose pans that match the size of the burners.
• Use heat-producing appliances such as your dryer, dishwasher and range during the cooler nighttime hours. Use the dishwasher only when you have a full load. Smaller loads use the same amount of water and power.
• Wash full laundry loads rather than washing multiple small loads. Clean the lint filter after every dryer load. Clothes will dry faster and it will save energy.
• Add insulation in the attic. Better attic insulation can save as much as 30 percent on cooling and heating costs. Insulation is measured in R-value. The higher the R-value, the better the insulation. Insulation of R-30 is recommended.
• Ensure that exterior windows and doors close snugly. This will keep the warm air out and cool air in. Apply weather stripping and caulking where needed.

In addition to energy saving tips, customers can get a customized energy checkup in as little as five minutes by going to www.alabamapower.com. Customers can take the EZ Check Up or the Full Check Up and get customized information on ways to save on their energy bill.

For more information on saving energy and cutting costs, contact Alabama Power at     1-800-990-APCO (2726) or go to www.alabamapower.com.

Alabama Power, a subsidiary of Atlanta-based Southern Company (NYSE: SO), provides reliable, affordable electricity to more than 1.4 million customers across the state.  

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Media Contact: Keisa Sharpe, APC Corporate Communications, (205) 257.4155, ksharpe@southernco.com