It hasn't been a lot of fun to read or listen to the weather forecast over the past few days. Mother nature doesn't appear to be cooling us off too much in the next few days, so finding ways to stay cool and not blow your budget are really important. Plus, you know it won't be the last heat wave this summer.

Here are a few tips that might help you out, thanks to Central Hudson.

  • If you aren't using it, turn it off. That means lights, appliances etc. As it turns out some entertainment systems and gaming systems continue to draw power even when they are turned off, so think about unplugging them, if that's easy to do.
  • Do you really need your thermostat set at 70 when you aren't home? Changing that to a higher temp when the house is empty will still have it feeling cooler than outside and save you some serious cash.
  • When's the last time you changed the filter in your air conditioners? It will help them run more efficiently.
  • Waiting to wash and dry your clothes or run the dishwasher until the evening can help as energy use during these times is less.
  • You can help keep your home cool by keeping curtains closed during the day when the sun is beating down.
  • This is not the time of year to stand in front of an open refrigerator debating on what to eat. Keep the doors closed as much as possible and limit how long the door is open is a big help.

What tips and tricks do you use at your home to keep it comfortable in the summer and save money on your energy bills? Let us know in the comments.

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