The most economical operation of your air conditioning system comes from setting the thermostat properly. Set the thermostat at the highest summer setting at which you are comfortable. Typical settings are 78 degrees for summer cooling. When cooling, your operating costs increase 3% to 8% for each degree your thermostat is raised. Continuously adjusting the thermostat can be very inefficient. You can, however, raise the thermostat 2-3 degrees during the day while you're away to save money, or consider using a programmable thermostat to automatically increase and decrease temperatures during the day and night. Flip the fan switch on your thermostat to the "Fan On" mode to ensure the air in your home is always being circulated to prevent hot and cold pockets from forming.

Energy costs have increased 30% or more this year. One way you can minimize this increased expense is by having annual service done to your air conditioner. Studies show that homeowners having annual service to their systems spend an average of $30 less each month because of increased efficiency. Lack of regular maintenance is also the #1 cause of system breakdowns and costly repairs. Check out Apollo's Gold and Platinum Care Plans detailed on our web site under Residential-Maintenance Agreements.

The easiest way to ensure your system operated efficiently is by keeping the air filter clean. There are several types of air filters and several possible locations for the air filter on your system. Ask Apollo's service technician next time he's out at your home to show you where your air filter is located and which type of air filter to use. If you have allergies, you should look at a pleated allergy filter or a media or electronic style air cleaner.

If you have disconnected the power to your central air conditioning system in the winter, wait 24-hours after turning power back on to your air conditioner before running it. The compressor needs this time to warm-up and work properly.

Keep shades and curtains drawn to reduce radiant heat from the sun. Install awnings and/or plant shade trees by southern facing windows to keep the hottest rays of the summer sun from shining directly into your house. This will reduce the cooling load in the summer, making your air conditioning system operate more economically.

Arrange your furniture and drapes so that all output vents and intake grilles are free from obstruction. This will also reduce the cooling load on your air conditioner and allow for more economical operation.

Air conditioning units require at least 12-18 inches of clearance for proper performance. Clear and cut-back any shrubs or bushes around you're AC unit and keep fallen leaves, grass clippings, foliage, and other dirt and debris away from the outdoor unit. For peak performance, also keep the air conditioner's coils clean by following the manufacturer's instructions.

Attics can reach temperatures of 140-150 degrees and this build-up of hot air can overload your cooling system and make the top floor of your home uncomfortable. Installing a thermostatically controlled attic fan can drastically decrease the build-up of hot air, saving your money and increasing the life of your cooling system.

A damp basement can add moisture to the whole house, making it uncomfortable during the hot and humid months of summer. Proper humidity levels also deter dust mites, control contaminates, and prevent moisture from devaluing your property. Apollo specializes in whole-home dehumidification systems that are effective, quiet, and virtually maintenance free.

Windows and doors should always be shut while your air conditioning is running, but replacing older, inefficient windows and doors can also lower your energy costs and extend the life of your air conditioner. Windows with more efficient low-E glass reduces the sun's warming rays. Insulated doors keep the cool air in and the warm air out during the summer.

Avoid using heat-generating appliances like the oven, dishwasher, washing machine, and dryer during the day. Use them instead in the evening when electricity rates may be lower and heat from these appliances won't increase the energy load on your air conditioner.

Make sure no heat-generating appliances are near your thermostat, including lamps, televisions, and stereo and computer equipment. Such heat-generating appliances can affect the setting of your thermostat and the efficiency of your cooling system.

Ensure maximum retention of cooled air by adding insulation to outside walls and to the attic of your home. Seal cracks and use storm doors and windows and/or insulated doors and windows to prevent air leaks.

Washington D.C. announced new energy tax savings for homeowners for 2006 and 2007. By upgrading your home's air conditioner you could receive a tax incentive of $500. Call Apollo at 242-5522 for more information.

You can increase the comfort in your home while reducing your energy needs by up to 30% by investing just a few hundred dollars in proper insulation and weatherization products. Cool air leaking out of your home during the spring/summer can waste a substantial portion of your energy dollars. One of the quickest dollar-saving tasks you can do is caulk, seal and weather strip all seams, cracks, and openings to the outside - especially windows and doors. You can save 10% or more on your energy bills by reducing the air leaks in your home