With temperatures soaring in Indiana, Duke Energy is providing tips to help customers save energy – and money. High temperatures can lead to higher energy usage and higher bills as residents try to stay cool. To keep costs low and to reduce overall energy demand, particularly during the afternoon hours when usage tends to peak, customers can follow these simple tips:

• Set the thermostat at the highest comfortable setting. The smaller the difference between the inside and outside temperatures, the lower the energy usage. Every degree that the thermostat is raised can help you save up to 5% in cooling costs.
• Avoid using appliances such as the washer, dryer and dishwasher during the day. If possible, delay using those appliances until evening.
• Close blinds and curtains during the day to help reduce solar heat gain and keep the home cooler.
• Microwaves and cooktops use less energy than electric ovens. Also consider outdoor grilling during those high-demand hours to keep indoor temperatures lower.
• Using a ceiling fan can make a room feel up to 4 degrees cooler than it actually is. Remember though, fans cool people, not rooms, so turn them off when leaving the room.
• Turn off any unnecessary appliances, unused plug-ins and lights.
• Make sure cool air isn’t escaping by checking windows, doors and vents for air leaks. Caulk seal, and weatherstripping to block leaks, which can help save 10% to 20% in cooling cost.
• Operate ceiling fans in a counterclockwise direction in the summer, which pushes cooler air back down into the room. If air conditioning is being used to cool the home, a ceiling fan will allow the thermostat to be raised about four degrees – typically with no reduction in comfort.

Duke Energy provides about 6,800 megawatts of owned electric capacity to approximately 900,000 customers in a 23,000 square mile service area, making it Indiana's largest electric supplier. For more information on how to cut back on energy costs, please visit www.duke-energy.com/home/billing/seasonal-bills.