Adjust air conditioning thermostats to 78 degrees to reduce energy usage during the hottest hours of the day when air conditioning systems have to work the hardest to cool. If you are away from your home, turn your air conditioning systems off.
Reduce power use during the afternoon/early evening hours from 3:00 to 10:00 p.m. when energy use is highest.
Limit use of major appliances during peak hours of the day. Use washing machines, dishwashers, vacuum cleaners and other heavy appliances during the early morning hours or during evening hours.
Ventilate the home in the early morning and evening by opening windows and doors to clear out the heat and allow cooler air to circulate. Close window curtains, shades or blinds during warmer hours to reduce the extra heat from direct sunlight coming through windows.
Turn off lights and other electrical equipment when they are not in use.
Unplug "energy vampires" like cell phone chargers, microwave ovens and other appliances that use energy even when not in use.
Order takeout if possible to avoid using the stove and range, helping to keep temperatures down indoors.
