The Iowa Utilities Board is reminding customers of ways to lower summer energy costs while keeping cool. Some easy and inexpensive steps to help reduce summer energy use include:

– blocking out direct sunlight with drapes and closing shades
– clean or replace air conditioner filters regularly
– keep furniture off of registers
– use fans to increase air circulation and only when a room is occupied
– install programmable thermostats to turn up the temperature a few degrees higher when you are away from your residence
– open windows during breaks from the heat and humidity
– plant shade trees on the south and west sides of homes or buildings for long-term shading
– wait to use heat-producing appliances (ovens, dryers, stoves, etc.) in the late evening or early morning when it is cooler
– add insulation to your home
– install energy-efficient windows to help block heat transfer

Also, for additional long-term energy savings, ask your local utility about a home energy audit, financial incentive and rebate programs, or energy-efficiency options.

For more information the Iowa Energy Center’s website at www.iowaenergycenter.org and the Energy Star website at www.energystar.gov.