(NewsUSA) - As summer inches closer, the temperature will rise. And while that means more time spent outside and longer days, it also means higher electric bills in many cases.
Numerous Americans are concerned about how a heat wave may impact their utility bills. Fortunately, utility bills can be maintained without compromising comfort. The following tips can help you stay comfortable all summer without breaking the bank.
Ask about utility programs. Many utilities offer programs that allow customers to "lock into" a specific rate for the season. Such programs help customers avoid the surprise factor associated with fluctuations in energy prices.
Change your filter monthly. A dirty air filter has to work harder to circulate air through the home. By cleaning or replacing the air filter monthly, or as directed by the manufacturer, homeowners can minimize wear and tear on their system.
Install a programmable thermostat. New thermostats, such as the Edge Thermostats by Carrier, make it possible to program a temperature schedule to fit any lifestyle.
Remove debris near the exterior and interior units. Debris around your furnace and air conditioner can keep air from circulating freely. Make sure that plants and shrubs are kept 30-inches or more from the air conditioning unit. Similarly, keep boxes, trash cans and other items away from the furnace unit.
Keep equipment maintained. Annual service and maintenance will ensure that your unit is working at peak efficiency.
Considering a new system? Ask a contractor about the energy savings you can expect with a high-efficiency unit. For example, the Infinity 21 air conditioner could save you up to 56 percent on your cooling bill. When selecting a system, a certified contractor will ensure that the system is appropriately sized for your home. A system too large or too small will not deliver the efficiency levels it was intended to provide.
These tips are brought to you by Carrier. For additional information on home heating and cooling systems, visit www.carrier.com and click on the "home" button.
Richard Gandon is the Managing Director of The Financial Learning Network. His 'Understanding the Stock Market" course was made into a CD-ROM and is in use in more that 50,000 classrooms nationwide.
Every year since 1998, Richard has teamed up with a fifth grade class in Georgia to teach them about the stock market online.
Richard has more than 20 years of financial services industry experience including as a broker, trader, licensing trainer and managed both a sales group and a Historical Equity & Index Research group at Standard & Poor's. 
