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Electricity rates typically rise during the peak cooling months of July and August, according to the federal Energy Information Administration. Prices could get higher in the years ahead; the EIA projects that electricity rates will rise 12 percent by 2010 and another 25 percent by 2025 as central air conditioners proliferate.
Recently enacted legislation is helping new central air conditioners trim costs by eliminating the most wasteful so that all are 30 percent more efficient by 2006. Here's how to make your current central or room unit keep you cool for less right now:
Kick temperatures up a notch. Each 1[degrees] F increase on your thermostat can cut your energy bill by 3 percent or more.
Keep out sun and heat. Use shades, vented awnings, blinds, or curtains, especially in the afternoon in west-facing rooms. Keep exterior doors and windows closed when running your air conditioner ...