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(LOUISVILLE, Ky.) – Weather may still be fairly mild, but with summer’s official arrival upon us, it’s not too early to begin putting plans in motion to help keep energy use down during the warmest months of the year. Though managing energy consumption can sound like a tall task, it only takes following a few simple tips to make a difference that can lower usage and energy bills as well.

If you’re wondering where to begin, check out the five tips below from LG&E and KU to help jumpstart summer energy savings.

1. Tune it up: Have a certified professional give your AC a tune-up to make sure it’s in tiptop shape and ready to perform when the heat kicks in. Remember to change your filter each month or according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Date your filter or set a reminder to help keep track of when it’s time for a new one. 
2. Keep it clear: Remove plants, dirt and grass clippings surrounding the outdoor unit of an air conditioner for uninterrupted air circulation. Periodically spray the outdoor coil with a garden hose to keep it free from debris. Inside, remember to keep registers clear and unblocked by furniture to allow cool air to easily circulate throughout the home. 
3. Seal it up: Keep the cool air you’re paying for in and the warm air out by sealing up any leaks or gaps around doors and windows. Sealing up ductwork also helps more efficiently cool the home. 
4. Set a program: Consider the schedules of those in the household and adjust the thermostat accordingly. Setting the thermostat to the highest comfortable setting during the day will help manage cooling expenses. Raising your thermostat setting by one degree can save as much as 4-7 percent on the cooling portion of your energy bill. 
5. Pull the shade: Closing curtains, drapes and blinds on sun-facing windows helps block rays that naturally increase indoor temperatures. 

Visit the LG&E and KU website to learn more ways to beat the heat and save energy this summer.
 

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Louisville Gas and Electric Company and Kentucky Utilities Company, part of the PPL Corporation (NYSE: PPL) family of companies, are regulated utilities that serve nearly 1.3 million customers and have consistently ranked among the best companies for customer service in the United States. LG&E serves 328,000 natural gas and 414,000 electric customers in Louisville and 16 surrounding counties. KU serves 555,000 customers in 77 Kentucky counties and five counties in Virginia. More information is available at www.lge-ku.com and www.pplweb.com.