If you are a southerner like me, and with global warming being what it is, even if you are not, you are likely interested in saving cash on your cooling bill this summer. Heating and cooling is often the biggest expense next to rent or mortgage, so if it is possible to save a few bucks when running your a/c or gas furnace, it is absolutely worth at least some effort. This summer, try to concentrate on being cooler without absolutely lowering the thermostat. First, don’t expect your appliances to battle each other. If you are running the a/c, don’t turn on the oven for various hours to cook a pot roast. Try to eat as various salads as possible, and if you need real food, get something that will cook rapidly so you don’t make your air conditioner have to fight to keep you cool, however last night, I rapidly pan-fried some chicken breasts to go with our salad… Even better, use the microwave as much as possible, and next, try to take cool showers. The water gas furnace works strenuous to supply you with hot water, and that’s okay, however if you take a hot shower, it will take a whole lot more effort to cool you down when you get out. Take cool showers, and your a/c will thank you. Don’t blow dry your hair. Blow dryers are mini heaters; Avoid them while in the Summer and supply your hair a little vacation from being constantly messed with. Instead, rest under a ceiling fan and let your hair dry naturally. Having wet hair and sitting under the ceiling fan will make it seem like you flipped your thermostat down 5 degrees.