Entergy Helping Customers Stay Cool and Save Money With Energy Efficiency Tips and Resources

By: Corporate Editorial Team

Easy tips to boost home energy efficiency and lower electric bill costs

NORTHAMPTON, MA / ACCESS Newswire / June 23, 2025 / As summer approaches and temperatures continue to rise, air conditioners will start running full blast and lead to an increase in electricity usage. However, staying cool and comfortable does not have to come at the cost of high energy bills. By making a few simple changes around your home, you can improve its energy efficiency and beat the heat while keeping costs down.

According to the U.S. Energy Information Administration, home heating and cooling costs can make up more than 52% of an average customer's electric bill. In some cases, poor insulation, air leaks and inefficient HVAC systems can lead to even greater energy costs each year. To keep your home cool without significantly lowering the thermostat and save money on your bill at the same time, try these low-to-no-costs tips.

Improving energy efficiency with low-to-no-cost tips

• Change air filters. Air filters on some air conditioning units require monthly cleaning or replacing.

• Set your thermostat to the highest comfortable temperature. The smaller the difference between the inside and outside temperatures, the lower your energy usage and bill will be.

• Buy a programmable thermostat. A programmable thermostat can help manage costs, is controllable, and can help monitor usage.  

• Use fans to cool off. Ceiling fans, box fans and oscillating fans use very little electricity to circulate the air. Make sure ceiling fans are rotating in the right direction - counter-clockwise during summer - to push cooler air down into the room. Be sure to turn all fans off in unused rooms.

• Close blinds, shades and curtains to keep the sun out and the cool air in. Also, close air conditioning vents in rooms that are not in use.

• Seal cracks and holes around doors, windows and ductwork. Weather stripping and caulk will help keep the cold air in and the hot air out.

• Use the myAdvisor tool. The usage and cost tool can compare usage history by month, day and hour.

By following these simple steps, you can stay cool and comfortable all summer long while keeping your bills under control. We also offer free comprehensive residential energy audits and rebates to help reduce the upfront cost of installing energy-efficient equipment.