We're still a few weeks from Summer, but with a heat wave in the east coast and feeling the 90's around here...it's time to crank up the ac, or is it?

Gas prices are high enough, so how do you keep your energy costs down? Here are some cheap tricks to stay cool courtesy of the Dept. of Energy:  

• Open windows and use portable or ceiling fans instead of operating your air conditioner. Even mild air movement of 1 mph can make you feel three or four degrees cooler. Make sure your ceiling fan is turned for summer -- you should feel the air blown downward. If you live in a relatively dry climate, a bowl or tray of ice in front of a box fan can cool you as it evaporates.
• Use a fan with your window air conditioner to spread the cool air through your home.
• Without blocking air flow, shade your outside compressor.
•  Change air filters monthly during the summer.
• Use a programmable thermostat with your air conditioner to adjust the setting at night or when no one is home.
• Don't place lamps or TVs near your air conditioning thermostat. The heat from these appliances will cause the air conditioner to run longer.
• Install white window shades, drapes, or blinds to reflect heat away from the house.
• Close curtains on south- and west-facing windows during the day

Hope they help! Keep cool everyone!! Any other good tips to pass along?