While summer is a great time to enjoy warm weather activities, it also may bring higher energy bills because of increased energy use. Delmarva Power offers its customers the following energy conservation tips:

• Have a licensed technician check your air conditioning system to ensure it is in good working condition.
• If health permits, set your air conditioner's thermostat between 75-78 degrees. Every degree you move up your thermostat can save as much as 5 percent on your cooling bill.
• Change or clean your air conditioner filter. A dirty filter causes the unit to run longer and inefficiently.
• Close window shades, blinds or drapes to keep out the sun and retain cooler air inside.
• Move lamps, TVs and other heat-producing items away from your air conditioner's thermostat. Turn off electric appliances and equipment when not in use.
• Check that all windows and doors are tightly closed to keep the cool air in and the hot air out. Weather stripping also can help seal air leaks around doors and windows.
• Cook and use other heat-generating appliances such as washers, dryers and dishwashers in cooler early morning or evening hours.
• Wash clothes in cold water.
• Use dishwashers only when fully loaded. Use the air-dry option if your unit has one.
• Consider preparing light summer meals that do not require a lot of cooking. If possible, use an outdoor grill or microwave for cooking. 

Summer will surely bring hot, humid weather, but with a little effort, you can be comfortable and help stretch your energy dollars. For more energy saving tips and to help better understand how extreme temperatures can affect your energy bill, visit www.delmarva.com. and click on "My Account," our online energy audit tool.

For more information about Delmarva Power, visit www.delmarva.com. Follow us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/delmarvapower and Twitter at www.twitter.com/delmarvaconnect. Our mobile app is available at www.delmarva.com/mobileapp.