* Turn off unnecessary lights and avoid using dishwashers, washing machines and dryers and doing other chores involving electrical equipment until after 9 p.m. when customer demand usually subsides.

* For central air conditioning systems, keep the fan switch on your thermostat in the "auto" position when cooling. This gives you better cooling and humidity control. Having the fan switch "on" continuously could cost an extra $25 a month on your electric bill.

* Set the thermostat a little higher. Most people can be comfortable with a setting of 78-80 degrees Fahrenheit, plus you'll save up to 7 percent of your cooling costs for each degree above 78.

* Use a ceiling fan or portable fan to supplement your air conditioning. A fan can make you feel three to four degrees cooler (and only costs a half-cent per hour to operate) so you can set your thermostat a few degrees higher and save on cooling costs.

* When you leave home, turn off the ceiling fans and set the thermostat up a few degrees.

* Clean or change your filters monthly. Dirty filters can increase operating costs by 20 percent. Don't block registers and vents with furniture or drapes.

* Close blinds, drapes and shades during the hottest part of the day. This keeps the sun's rays from heating your home.

* Use your microwave oven to cook food. Microwaves use less than one-half the power of conventional ovens, and they don't heat up your kitchen.

* Caulk, seal and weatherstrip all openings from your home to the outside. Eliminating air leaks in your home can save you up to 10 percent in energy costs.