Energy-saving alternatives include shutting computers down when they’re not in use; using an electric fan rather than an air conditioner to keep cool; it’s only one-tenth the cost and can save a substantial amount of energy. A key reminder: when doing so, it’s also wise to be sure to leave a window open for ventilation.  And in times of extreme heat, it’s always wise to close shades, blinds and curtains to keep out the sun; about 40 percent of unwanted heat comes right through the windows.

Other steps the company is recommending to stay cool include:

• Making sure air conditioner filters are clean for peak efficiency;

• Setting thermostats no lower than 78 degrees.  Each degree lower increases cooling costs by 6 percent;

• Closing off the rooms not being used if you have a room air-conditioner; if you have central air, `block the vents in unused or vacant rooms;

• Turning off lights and other appliances, using a timer to turn them on as necessary;  

• Running appliances such as ovens, washing machines, dryers, and dishwashers in the early morning or late at night when it’s generally cooler. Another alternative: Using a microwave to cook, or a barbecue outside, if possible.
  
  
• Accepting Con Edison’s offer of a free programmable thermostat if you have central air conditioning.  Program the thermostat manually or from the Internet. Turning off your air conditioner when you’re not there beats leaving it on all the time, and programming it instead to turn on before you return is a wise way to save on summer electric bills. To learn more about Con Edison’s free programmable thermostat, call 1-866-521-8600 or visit www.conEd.com/cool.