In warm weather, energy costs soar. It is hard to watch the electric bill get higher each month as another Houston summer draws close and the temps climb ever higher, but you have to keep your family and yourself cool. Fortunately, there are a few steps that you can take to reduce your usage and help keep costs manageable.

• Something as inexpensive and easy to change as the filters for your air conditioner can make a difference by keeping the air flowing.
• Installing a programmable thermostat can cool your house before you get home, without running the AC unit all day.
• Install fluorescent lighting. Incandescent bulbs are more expensive to operate and give off much more heat. Fluorescents don’t have to be changed as often.
• Replace older appliances with modern ones that are Energy Star efficient. They are less expensive to use and add up to big savings on your electricity bill.
• Find a retail electric provider who offers better rates. If you haven’t done so already, shop and compare providers. There's a chance you may find better rates than you are paying now and make those summer days much cooler.