Summer Savings

Summer can mean more leisure time, more time to spend money: expensive vacations, high air conditioning bills. But here are some ways you can mitigate those expenses.

Energy: Just because it's hot outside, you don't have to keep the inside of your house like a freezer. It's not healthy for your body to experience such drastic temperature changes. Turn up the thermostat to 78 degrees, or as high as you can stand it; every degree toward equalization of indoor to outdoor temperature represents many dollars in savings. Put away sweaters and blankets, and wear those shorts and sleeveless shirts inside.

Take advantage of lower outdoor temperatures in early morning and late evening by opening the windows and running a whole house fan. But be sure to close all the windows and doors once you turn the air conditioner back on. Use fans to help circulate the air inside and make it feel cooler. But turn them off when you leave the room.

Close off vents in rooms no one is using, so you can concentrate the conditioned air where you are.

Program your thermostat to set the temperature higher when no one is home, then start to cool down about a half hour before your expected return. I've checked on neighbors' homes for them while they were on vacation, to find they have left their house plants to bask in a cool 72 degrees for an entire two weeks.

Food: Take advantage of seasonal fruits and vegetables that may be on sale. Prepare dishes that require little or no cooking, or that can be cooked by microwave, stove top, or outdoor grill. Using the oven not only consumes more energy, but it heats up your house and causes your air conditioner to work harder.

With higher temperatures, be more vigilant about food safety. Refrigerate leftovers promptly so they don't spoil. Rinse plates and utensils after use and dispose of garbage properly so as not to attract pests.

Plan your grocery shopping around your vacation schedule so you use up your perishables before you leave town. It's no fun coming home to a science experiment that represents wasted food.

Entertainment: See movies during the day, at the lower matinee prices. Plus, you can benefit from someone else's air conditioning while your thermostat is turned up.

Meet friends for lunch instead of dinner. Many restaurants have lunch specials which can help you lower your dining-out costs.

Take advantage of outdoor activities and longer days with more natural lighting. If you have access to a swimming pool, take a dip to cool down. By enjoying the outdoors, you won't consume as much electricity to cool and light your home.

What tips do you have for summer savings? I would love to hear your comments.

Sharon Marchisello is the author of Live Cheaply, Be Happy, Grow Wealthy