Saving money on our summer energy bill is not only great for the family budget, but is also beneficial to the community. It takes only a few simple steps to cut your energy bill by as much as 20%-50%.

Saving energy doesnt have to be as painful as sunburn, nor does it have to cost much money or time. It has more to do with changing a few energy-wasting habits. And where costs are involved - such as having your cooling system checked annually by a professional - the expense can be offset by making your system more efficient and longer-lasting.

1.) Close draperies or shades during the day to block the sun.

2.) Keep cool air in by installing insulation and weather stripping.

3.) Cook on the grill to keep cooking heat outside. When using the stove, vent heat outside with a range hood.

4.) Use a microwave instead of an oven. Microwaves use less than half the power of a conventional oven and cook food in about one-fourth the time.

5.) Use the air-dry feature on dishwashers.

6.) Service air conditioners annually and change the filter regularly. Use a programmable thermostat to regulate the temperature in your home, and turn air conditioners off when no one is home.

7.) Use cold water rather than hot when doing laundry. You will save about 85% of the energy it takes to wash clothes.

8.) Use washing machines, dryers, and dishwashers after 7pm when energy costs are lower in most places.

9.) Save energy by using the fast rather than slow spinning cycle when drying clothes, since the fast cycle removes more water.

10.) Switch to fluorescent lights that use on-third of the energy than incandescent lights. Remember that appliances account for about 20% of your households energy consumption. A new energy-efficient refrigerator could save from $35 to $70 a year compared to models of 15 years ago. This amounts to between $525 and $1,050 during the average 15-year life of the unit. Remind your family of the steps, and implement them into your life.