Five Ways to Save Energy and Money This Summer

by Madison Gas and Electric

Want to save money on your electric bill? Madison Gas and Electric Company (MGE) wants to help get you started. Here are five simple ways to save this summer.
 

1. Turn up the air conditioner. Air conditioners are often the biggest users of electricity in the summertime. The higher you set the temperature, the less your electric bill will be. MGE recommends 78 degrees or higher. Turn it off when no one is home.
   
2. Keep the heat out. Close shades or drapes to keep the sun out. Cook outside or use a microwave. Turn off lights when not needed. (They produce heat.)
   
3. Keep cool. Use exhaust fans to remove heat and moisture from cooking or showering. Use ceiling fans to cool your skin and get wet (take a cool shower, play with the kids in a wading pool, or run through a lawn sprinkler).
   
4. Buy energy-saving appliances. Appliances which use less energy save you money. Look for the ENERGY STAR® label. It means you are buying an appliance which will save you energy.
   
5. Develop energy-saving habits. Turn off televisions, computers, and other electronics when you are not using them. Wear lightweight clothing. Use cold water to wash clothes.
   

 
For more information, call MGE's Home Energy Line at 252-7117 or visit mge.com.