July 28 is Conservation Day. Celebrate by using these tips to optimize your energy usage, save money, and protect the environment.

1) Air Conditioners

Tips to conserve energy air conditioner maintenance

In addition to being careful with your AC usage, ensuring that you’re performing routine maintenance on your unit also helps with conservation. For example, regularly replacing or cleaning air filters can lower your cooling system’s energy consumption by up to 15 percent.

2) Windows

Keep window open to help with energy usage summer

Opening windows creates a cross-wise breeze, allowing you to cool your home using less or no air conditioning. Window treatments such as shades, blinds, or films can reduce heat gain when temperatures rise, which can help reduce energy usage and cost.

3) Ceiling Fans

Electric ceiling fan help with air flow and energy conservation

According to Energy.gov, cooling your home with a ceiling fan will raise your thermostat temperature by four degrees. Ensure you’re also utilizing your bathroom fan, as they’re good for removing heat and humidity from the home.

4) Cook Outdoors

Cooking outdoors helps to reduce heat in home

Cooking can raise the temperature in your home and cause your air conditioner to work overtime. On warmer days, use an outdoor grill instead of an indoor oven to keep heat out of your home.

5) Natural Lighting

Reading by the window natural lighting power usage

Switch off artificial lighting and use windows and skylights to brighten your home during the day to save on power during the months when AC is working the power grid to its limit.

6) Thermostats

Smart thermostat changing temperature to conserve energy

Apart from being frugal with your AC usage, setting your thermostat higher while you’re not home can help reduce your energy costs by approximately 10 percent.

7) Air Leaks

Seal air leaks to help keep cool air indoors energy conservation

Use low-cost caulk to seal cracks and openings in your home to keep warm air outside and cool air inside. Additionally, air loss through ducts accounts for nearly 30 percent of a cooling system’s energy consumption. Ensuring your ducts are sealed and insulated is a small step that can make a big difference in your energy consumption and cost.