When it's hot outside (and in some parts of the country, that's all year long), you want to be cool inside. But that requires energy. Consider these money savers:

Use the right-size air conditioner.

A bigger unit won't make you feel cooler faster. A properly sized air conditioner works best because it runs for relatively longer periods, rather than continually switching on and off. Longer run times allow air conditioners to maintain a more constant room temperature.

Install insulating blinds.

Look for energy-efficient blinds that are designed to keep cooled air in and reflect sun out. Hunter Douglas's Applause blinds have a honey-comb construction that insulates in winter and keeps out heat in summer. Call 800-937-7895 or go to www.hunterdouglas.com for store locations.