With the dog days of summer officially upon us — and with [tag]utility costs[/tag] rising at the same pace as our backyard thermometers, the [tag]Alliance to Save Energy[/tag] offers these tips to remain cool during the sweltering heat wave and save a few bucks in the process. Shift energy-intensive tasks, such as laundry and dishwashing, to off-peak hours — nights, mornings, and weekends — when the strain on the power grid from business, industry and homes operating [tag]air conditioning[/tag] simultaneously is reduced. Operate washers and dryers with full loads to get the most for your energy dollars.

Also consider increasing the temperature by just three degrees to decrease your energy bills — or use a fan to circulate air so that you can increase the temperature comfortably. For optimum performance, make sure window units are sized properly. Save water and energy simultaneously. Energy Star-certified clothes washers cut water and energy usage simultaneously, while getting clothes just as clean with less wear and tear. Also investigate Energy Star-certified dishwashers with soil sensors to shorten the washing cycle and clothes dryers with moisture sensors.

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