Thank you to our Communications Sponsor, NRG Energy, for providing the following tips for summer cost-savings!

As we officially enter summer in Philadelphia, now’s a great time to think about how to be energy efficient once those hot temperatures strike.

The important thing about energy usage is finding that balance between being comfortable and being energy efficient and responsible. There are many things you can do, but we’ve narrowed it down to the five that are easiest and most cost effective right now.

Follow the four-by-four principle. During the summer months, setting your thermostat four degrees higher when you’re away from home for more than four hours can help reduce electricity usage and costs. When your thermostat is set below 78°F, each degree cooler may increase your usage by up to five percent.

Better yet, consider a smart thermostat. They can monitor your movements and adjust temperatures based on when you’re in the room or not.

Use LED lights whenever possible. According to the Energy Department, residential LEDs — especially ENERGY STAR rated products — use at least 75% less energy, and last 25 times longer, than incandescent lighting. The investment you make now will pay off over the long term.

Check air filters monthly and replace as necessary. A clean air filter keeps your A/C running at peak condition. You can get them at any hardware store for relatively cheap. They’re pretty easy to replace.

Resist the urge to override your automatic A/C fan settings. Set your A/C fan to the “auto” rather than “on” position. Using the “on” setting can increase energy costs and cause heat from the attic to be transferred into your living space through the ductwork, making the A/C work harder to maintain your desired temperature.

Close your blinds or curtains during the day. Sunlight can increase the demand on your air conditioner by as much as 30 percent. Don’t make your A/C work that hard.

BONUS TIP: One thing to also consider. Pennsylvania, New Jersey, and Delaware are  electricity choice states, which means consumers don’t have to settle for the one price fits all the utilities offer. People have a lot of choices. Many companies, like NRG, offer a variety of electricity plans that suit a family’s lifestyle and electricity usage, including fixed price plans that allow customers to lock-in their supply price for a set period, which can protect them from potential unpredictable energy price hikes due to heat waves and other factors.

Visit Tips to lower your electricity bill for more information.