How to stay cool and save money in hot weather

5 tips to stay cool and save money on hot weather days, from DTE Energy:

1. 1) Install a programmable thermostat - Program your thermostat to work around your family's summer schedule. A setting of 78 degrees is recommended in the summer. With proper use, programmable thermostats can save you about $180 annually in energy costs.

2) Close blinds and curtains on south- and west-facing windows - This easy step blocks out summer sunlight, making your home cooler. You can also plant trees outside to shade windows or move potted trees and plants in front of windows.

3) Run your ceiling fan to create a cool breeze - If you raise your thermostat by only two degrees and use your ceiling fan, you can lower cooling costs by up to 14 percent. Remember fans cool you, not the room, so when you leave the room, make sure to turn off the fan. Need a ceiling fan? The simple choice is ENERGY STAR – a certified fan with lights is 60% more efficient.

4) Avoid activities that add heat and humidity to your home during the hottest parts of the day.

• Cook outside on the grill instead of using the oven whenever possible.
• Postpone laundry and dishwashing until the evening when the outside air is cooler.
• Let dishes air dry in the dishwasher rather than using the drying feature.
• Use a drying rack or hang clothes outside.

5) Purchase ENERGY STAR® room air conditioners - A room air conditioner with the ENERGY STAR label uses about 10% less energy and costs less than $70 a year to run, on average.

Learn more at dteenergy.com/summer