Most homes and offices these days have an air conditioner. Various types of air conditioners are used according to the cooling needs. An air conditioner provides comfort during summers by releasing cool air and sucking out the heat. The prolonged usage of an air conditioner is bound to increase the electricity bill, as compared to using the fan.

Here are some ideas to cut electricity costs through optimum usage of your air conditioner:

•    Select an air conditioning unit with thermostat controls as well as programmable timers.
•    Open windows, shades during the evening when temperatures drop and the air gets cooler. Use blinds, awnings and shades for keeping the heat out.
•    Turn off lights, television and computer machines when they are not in use. They put additional load on air conditioners and make them work harder!
•    Do not place lamps or television sets near an air conditioning thermostat.
•    Shut unoccupied rooms and close their air conditioning vents.
•    Switch off air conditioners in unoccupied rooms.