With spring just around the corner and warmer days on the horizon, it’s a great time to make a few small changes that can improve your home’s energy efficiency. You’ll enjoy cool savings and a more comfortable home by preparing with these seven tips:

1. Service your air conditioner. Easy maintenance such as routinely replacing or cleaning air filters can lower your cooling system’s energy consumption by up to 15%. Also, the first day of spring can be a reminder to check your air conditioner’s evaporator coil, which should be cleaned annually to ensure the system is performing at optimal levels.
2. Open windows. Opening windows creates a crosswise breeze, allowing you to naturally cool your home without switching on air conditioners. This is an ideal tactic in spring when temperatures are mild.
3. Use ceiling fans. Cooling your home with ceiling fans will allow you to raise your thermostat. This can help lower your energy bills without sacrificing overall comfort.
4. Install window treatments. Energy-efficient window treatments or coverings such as blinds, shades and films can slash heat gain when temperatures rise. These devices not only improve the look of your home but reduce energy costs.
5. Caulk air leaks. Using low-cost caulk to seal cracks and openings in your home keeps warm air out and cash in your wallet.
6. Set the thermostat. On warm days, setting a programmable thermostat to a higher setting when you are not at home can reduce your energy costs by approximately 10%.
7. Seal ducts. Air loss through leaky ducts can lead to higher energy costs, accounting for up to 30% of a cooling system’s energy consumption. Sealing and insulating ducts can go a long way toward lowering your monthly bills.

To perform a free Energy Checkup on your home’s energy use and to get more energy efficiency tips, visit www.alabamapower.com/tips.

Setting a programmable thermostat to a higher setting when you are not at home can help reduce your energy costs by approximately 10%. (contributed)

Cooling your home with ceiling fans will allow you to raise your thermostat and lower your energy bills without sacrificing comfort. (contributed)

Opening windows is a good way to cool your home in the spring, when temperatures are mild. (contributed)