These smart ways to use energy are helping the people of the Northwest save record levels of energy and lower their energy bills. The more of these low and no-cost tips that you do, the more you'll save.

1. Open your home's windows at night. Take advantage of naturally cool night air when possible, and open multiple windows to increase cross ventilation and provide a cooling draft.

2. Keep windows and doors closed during the hot part of the day.

3. Shade the windows on your home. External shades and trees are best; curtains and other window coverings also help prevent heat gain.

4. Use a fan instead of air conditioning. People feel five degrees cooler when air around them is moving.

5. Insulation is important. Make sure your home has the appropriate amount of insulation in the attic, walls, and floors. Consult EWEB's Energy Management Services department to determine the appropriate amount of insulation for your home.

6. Limit use of incandescent and halogen lights. About 90 percent of the energy used is turned into heat and only 10 percent goes to providing light. Replace incandescent bulbs with energy efficient compact fluorescent light (CFL) bulbs, and start by replacing the bulbs that are used most often. CFLs use one-third the energy of incandescent bulbs and last ten times as long.

7. On hot days, avoid using the stove and clothes dryer. Try to use an outdoor grill or microwave oven for cooking, and dry clothes on a line or use the dryer at night.

If you have air conditioning:

8. Set the thermostat to 78 degrees. With every degree that you lower the temperature, energy use rises by 3 percent. A temperature setting of 75 degrees can cost 9 percent more, and a 72 degree setting can cost 18 percent more.

9. Keep cooling vents unobstructed. Check registers to make sure that they're not blocked by furniture or other stuff.

10. Clean filters monthly during seasons of use. Air conditioner and furnace filters trap dirt and dust, clean the air you breathe, and help these units operate more efficiently.

11. Use a programmable thermostat. Set the timer to start cooling the home 30 minutes before anyone arrives home.

For more tips, advice, and information about saving energy and lowering your utility bills, rely on the energy experts at EWEB. We also offer rebates and loans for energy efficiency improvements to your home or business.