On average, most people spend about $2000 a year on energy costs. So, even a 10% savings could mean an extra $200 in your pocket. Here are some quick and easy things you can do to reduce your summer energy consumption and save money at the same time.

The California Energy Commission has some great tips:

 
 

Be a speedy chef

• Nothing is more energy efficient for cooking than your microwave. It uses two-thirds less energy than your stove.

Push a button to wash your dishes

• Surprise! Your dishwasher uses less water than washing dishes by hand. Then let dishes air-dry to save even more!

Fill up the fridge

• Having lots of food in your fridge keeps it from warming up too fast when the door is open. So your fridge doesn’t have to work as hard to stay cool.

PioneerThinking offers some ways to save 10% on your air conditioning costs.

• Inspect and maintain your cooling system. Simple measures such as cleaning and replacing clogged air filters can reduce cooling costs up to 10%. An annual service call will extend the life of your expensive cooling equipment and boost efficiency.
• Don’t forget cooling system ductwork. Leaking joints, elbows and connections can boost energy consumption 20 to 30%. Use duct mastic to seal loose joints.
• Shade your air conditioner from direct sunlight.
• Adjust your air conditioner’s thermostat when you go out, and shut your system down when you are away for extended period.
• Close all windows, doors and chimney dampers when using your air conditioner. Don’t use your hard-earned money to cool the great outdoors. Unused rooms should be closed off to cut cooling costs.

CenterPoint Energy suggests keeping the temperature difference between the indoors and outdoors 15 degrees or less and adjusting your registers to promote upward air flow. You’ll also want to keep your outdoor cooling unit clean making it a regular practice to remove leaves and other debris. Use a garden hose to clean exposed coils.