As temperatures rise in the state of Indiana, so do air conditioning bills. After being outside in the Hoosier humidity and heat, one of the best feelings is going inside and immediately getting hit by the cool AC. But the more you blast your home with the refreshing air, the higher your energy bill will be during the summer months. So, as the summer heat wave continues, remember these quick tips on conserving energy this summer and save money while doing so.  

Time for a good ole’ family cookout…outside!  

One way to conserve energy during the summer is to stay out of the kitchen as much as you can. When you use the oven and stove it naturally causes the room to get warmer, which may lead to needing to lower your thermostat. Instead of cooking inside every day, try to alternate days when you cook inside and when you grill your meals outside. Make sure if you do grill you abide by these grilling tips!  

Obviously, not everyone has access to a grill or knows how to grill, so in that case try and make something fresh, like different kinds of pasta and chicken salads or maybe try a pre-cooked meal from your local grocery store. Either way, it will keep your kitchen clean and cool and conserve energy in your home.  

Standing, box and ceiling fans can provide a lot more than just white noise.  

Portable fans and ceiling fans are great ways to stay cool, without needing to lower your thermostat. Air flow circulating in your home during the day, evening and at night can help keep you and your family cool while also saving money on your AC bill. Shop for some fans and start saving today.  

Keep the sunshine out and your windows and doors closed.  

Another tip is to invest in sun blocking blinds and curtains for your windows in order to keep your home cooler. Make sure that sliding glass and screen doors are fully shut and windows are sealed. Having your windows and doors accidentally open during the day is an easy way to lose valuable AC, costing additional money on your energy bill.  

Be smart when it comes to your thermostat.  

If you find yourself heating up in your home during the day, don’t freak out and turn your thermostat down 10 notches. Instead, see what temperature feels good to you a bit more gradually. Try to keep your thermostat above 72 degrees during the summer to optimize cooling energy. If you can, try 78 degrees during the summer and you may end up saving a little more money throughout the season.  

Weather says cool and cloudy? Time to open up your windows again.  

Keep an eye on your weekly forecast to see if there will be any days that may be cooler. If there is a day that the temperature drops, take this opportunity to turn off your AC off and open your windows for natural air flow throughout your home. This is a great way to take advantage of Indiana’s ever-changing weather and save money. Watching the weather can also help with deciding if you are able to have a cookout that day!  

The state of Indiana is known for its frequent fluctuation in weather and temperatures. Using these tips for conserving energy during the summer can save you money-- money that you could use to do something fun with family and friends. Take the time to read these tips and apply them to your daily lives; this can help you, your family and your home stay cool throughout the summer. 

 *The information in this article was compiled from a variety of sources and is intended to provide helpful tips only.