Keeping Cool in the Summer Heat

The state's all-time record peak energy demand of 2,248 megawatts, set during an August 2006 heat wave, may be in jeopardy. Demand for energy is expected to soar as New Hampshire and the region cope with repeated heat waves. But Public Service of New Hampshire claims in a press release that it is prepared to meet that demand. However, the energy company is also offering tips on moderating personal energy consumption while still staying cool.

Check out the company's Cool Tips to keep energy use down now and throughout the summer:

Keeping the heat out and the cool in - Sunlight shining in windows adds unwanted summer heat to homes, making it harder to keep indoor air cool. Using blinds, shades or drapes to block the sun can help. And, even without air conditioning, most homes will stay cooler if the windows are closed during the hottest part of the day. Simply close them early and open them again when the outside temperature drops.

Air conditioners work best in the shade - If possible, keep room air conditioners out of the sun. They run much more efficiently when kept cool. Installing one in a north-facing window is usually ideal. If you are shopping for an air conditioner, look for the Energy Star label to ensure the unit is energy efficient.

Raising the temperature lowers the bill - Keeping air conditioner thermostats set at a moderate temperature saves energy and money. Because air conditioners also remove humidity from the air, they'll help keep you cool even with a higher temperature setting.

It's a great time to cook outside - Cooking indoors will heat your home, cooking outdoors won't. Today's gas grills are more than just a way to cook traditional summertime favorites - they make great ovens, too. A closed lid and a properly adjusted temperature can result in a perfectly cooked meal. Many grill manufacturers even list the optimal settings and provide easy recipes right in the owner's manual.

Fridges and freezers are big-time energy users - To make the most of your energy dollars, be sure to vacuum their coils regularly, close their doors quickly and keep them well-stocked. Using jugs of water is a perfect low-cost option to fill empty space. Old refrigerators and freezers typically use three times more electricity than today's energy-efficient models. If that extra fridge or freezer in the basement isn't really needed, consider unplugging it for extra savings.

Conserving energy - It's always best to shut lighting and appliances off when not needed. Incandescent lights, when on, add heat to your home. Turning lights off when they are not needed will help keep your home cooler.