Air conditioning can drive up your energy bills during the summer. Follow our easy step-by-step guide to precool your home on weekdays. Remember, there are no Peak hours on weekends and federal holidays.

1. Start with a programmable or smart thermostat to automate the following steps.
2. At 12 p.m., (three hours before Peak hours), set the thermostat temperature three degrees lower than your usual setting so your home is cool and comfortable as Peak period begins. Peak hours are from 3 p.m. -7 p.m. weekdays.
3. At 3 p.m., when Peak hours begin, set the thermostat temperature three degrees higher than your usual setting so that the air conditioner runs less often, while not letting your home get too warm.
4. At 7 p.m., when Peak hours end, set the thermostat to return to your usual setting. Temperature may vary by preferred comfort level and size of home among other factors.

  
Consider the new Super Off-Peak Rate. With the Super Off-Peak Rate, you can cool down on those hot summer nights with a 40% discount on all of your electric use between 10 p.m. and 6 a.m., seven days a week.

• Daytime temperature setting
  Setting the thermostat too high when it is cold outside can waste energy and cost you. The warmer your home is, the faster thermal energy will be lost to the outside. Lowering the temperature slows the rate of thermal energy and heat loss. To achieve optimal comfort, it is recommended for homeowners to set their thermostats between 68 to 72 degrees when you are home.
• Nighttime and away temperature
  When the home is empty for an extended amount of time and at night, it is a good idea to lower the temperature to 58 to 62 degrees. That temperature is warm enough to keep pipes from freezing. With a programmable or smart thermostat, you can raise the heat about an hour before you get up, so you wake up to a warm, comfortable home.