Here are some tips for beating the heat while limiting your energy consumption:

- Substituting fans for air conditioners on mild summer days can reduce energy use by 60% or more.

- A programmable thermostat can save as much as 10% on your cooling bill by simply turning your thermostat back 10 to 15 degrees for 8 hours. You can do this easily using a programmable or a setback thermostat

- Set your thermostat as high as comfortably possible in the summer. A smaller difference between the indoor and outdoor temperatures will help lower your overall cooling bill.

- Install room air conditioners should on a flat, even surface so that the inside drainage system and other mechanisms operate efficiently.

- Set the fan speed on high, except on very humid days. When humidity is high, set the fan speed on low for more comfort. The low speed on humid days will make for a more comfortable home by removing more moisture from the air.

- An interior fan used in conjunction with your window air conditioner will spread the cooled air more effectively through your home without greatly increasing electricity use.

- Don't place lamps or televisions near your air-conditioning thermostat, which senses heat from these appliances. This can cause the air conditioner to run longer than necessary.

- Install the unit in a shaded spot on the home's north or east side; direct sunshine on the unit's outdoor heat exchanger decreases efficiency.

- Plant trees and shrubs to shade air-conditioning units but do not block the air flow. A unit operating in the shade uses as much as 10% less electricity than the same one operating in the sun.

- During the winter, cover or remove room air conditioners.

- Cleaning or replacing the unit’s filters (as necessary) can lower your air conditioner's energy consumption by 5-15%.

- Clogged drain channels prevent a unit from reducing humidity and the resulting excess moisture may discolor walls or carpet. Channels usually can be cleared by passing a stiff wire through them.

Stay cool!