Set your thermostat to 78 degrees or higher in the summer and 68 degrees or lower in the winter.

Consider installing a programmable thermostat – you’ll be able to tailor your heating and cooling to your family’s schedule.

Service your air conditioning unit annually before each cooling season and your furnace before each heating season and replace filters monthly during the summer and as needed during the rest of the year. 

Close windows and doors when your cooling or heating system is running. 

By using a fan, you can raise your thermostat temperature 2-3 degrees, taking the load off your air conditioner or heat pump. 

Use oscillating or ceiling fans only when the room is occupied.

Clean your refrigerator coils at least once every three months - use a coil brush to avoid damaging the coil with a vacuum.

Use the ‘air dry option’ on your dishwasher or prop its door open after final rinse. 

Use cold water when washing your clothes & wash and dry full loads only - air drying your clothes is another option, leaving them with a fresh, clean smell.

Clean your dryer lint filter each time you use it - this improves efficiency and improves the safety of operating the appliance.

Shelter your pool from wind with landscaping, cabanas or a protective fence - the shelter will help maintain the pool’s temperature and prevent flying debris that will force the pump and filter to work harder. 

Use a pool cover - a good cover will keep the water temperature 10 degrees higher and reduce water and chemical evaporation by up to 70 percent. 

Install an insulating wrap on your water heater to reduce heat loss, newer models may not require additional insulating or may void the warranty.

Install a low-flow shower head, and take five minute showers instead of baths. 

Set the temperature on your water heater to 120 degrees or lower - verify that this meets your dishwasher’s requirements.

Turn off power or consider installing a timer to your electric water heater when you are away from home for more than a weekend.

Use awnings, solar screens or shade trees to keep ultraviolet rays from hitting your windows. 

Check door frames for cracks and make sure you have a good weather stripping seal - repair and replace when necessary. 

Unplug any and all appliances when not in use.

Consider replacing incandescent bulbs with compact fluorescent lamps. 

Check with your pool professional on the minimal amount of time the pool pump should operate.