As the hotter temperatures of summer begin to usher out the milder, less predictable spring weather, Sierra Pacific Power Company is reminding northern Nevadans how to conserve energy and reduce their power bills while keeping their homes cool and comfortable. 

"The most important thing that customers can do to save energy in the summer is to adjust their thermostat to a higher setting,"said John Hargrove, energy efficiency and conservation project manager at Sierra Pacific."We recommend setting your thermostat at 78 degrees when you are home and 85 degrees when you are away."

Programmable thermostats make it possible to automatically set your air conditioner to operate when needed and to shut down when it's not needed, usually at night, during the early morning and times when your home is unoccupied. “Open windows to let Mother Nature cool your home at night and in the morning when it is the coolest, said Hargrove. “Make sure the blinds and drapes are closed during the warmer parts of the day to keep the cool air in.

He also said it's important to make sure your air conditioner is operating efficiently by replacing the air filters and cleaning the condenser coils, making sure that they are free of debris.  In addition, portable electric fans and ceiling fans are very effective ways to circulate air, keeping indoor temperatures cooler while holding down energy costs.

Other conservation tips that Sierra Pacific recommends are applicable anytime but hold even greater importance during the hot summer months. 

"Turn off all lights and appliances when not in use,"said Hargrove."The dollars and cents saved by doing this can add up quickly."

Additionally, he suggested replacing incandescent light bulbs with more efficient compact fluorescent bulbs, a move that can save up to a dollar a month for each bulb changed.  It is also a good idea to use the dishwasher, washing machine and dryer later in the day, as these appliances can rapidly heat a house, and use your outdoor barbecue when possible because your kitchen oven can rapidly heat the house.

For more energy tips or additional information on any of Sierra Pacific's conservation programs, including the Refrigerator Recycling Program and the Energy Star Lighting Program, log onto www.sierrapacfic.comor call (775) 834-4444.