Save electricity by using fans with, or instead of, air conditioning

Instead of relying solely on air conditioning, turn up the thermostat 3 to 5 degrees and switch on a fan—chances are, you won't even be able to tell the difference. Every degree you bump up the thermostat melts about 3 percent off your cooling expenses, so five degrees could save you up to 15 percent. (Wearing light-colored, natural fabrics can help, too.)

Running a ceiling fan will only cost you a few cents a day, according to the California Energy Commission, because the average ceiling fan has roughly the same electricity use of a 100-watt light bulb. Not only can using ceiling fans, oscillating fans, and other room fans supplement air conditioning, but they may even be able to replace it in mild climates and on not-as-hot days. Remember to turn off fans when you leave the room, though: Home cooling and heating already costs the average family over $930 a year, accounting for nearly half of annual energy costs, according to the Environmental Protection Agency. By turning up the thermostat and using fans, it's a breeze to save energy!

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