Scorching Summer Savings

Top 10 ways to save from our energy efficiency expert!

It's that time of year again — time for the dreaded summer power bills to start rolling in. While we have a variety of tools and resources to help you curb your electricity use and save some money this summer, you can also perform some simple checks around your home to ensure it's ready for the Oklahoma heat.

Here are our Energy Efficiency Solutions Specialist Daniel Lofland's top 10 ways to save this summer:

1. Take advantage of our FREE Home Energy Consultation Program. This full-home energy audit is free to qualifying members — sign up at www. okcoop.org/HECP

2. Install a programmable thermostat, and don't forget to apply for OEC's $50 rebate. Program your thermostat to increase your home's temperature to at least 78 degrees between 3 p.m. and 7 p.m., especially if you are on our Time of Use rate.

3. Switch your lighting to LED lighting where possible.

4. Lower your water heater's setting to 120 degrees.

5. Avoid using your clothes dryer between 3 p.m. and 7 p.m.

6. Turn off the heated dry function on your dishwasher. Instead, simply open its door when the cleaning cycle is complete and let your dishes air dry.

7. Use power strips where possible and turn off those devices when not in use. This is a small inconvenience that could add up to big savings.

8. Keep HVAC filters replaced and units maintained.

9. Buy ENERGY STAR®-rated appliances when they need to be replaced.

10. Ensure your home is properly sealed. Check the weatherstripping on doors where you can see light coming through the edges, and re-caulk around windows to help seal the home.

In addition to these tips, complete your home's profile using our Home Energy Advisor tool at www.okcoop.org/auditcalc, and check out our rate options on page 4 or www.okcoop.org/rates to find even more ways to save.