With the first heat wave of the summer sweeping across the tri-state area, some local homeowners are facing the difficult choice of taking the heat or paying more to keep their homes cool.

Con Edison officials advise homeowners against blasting air conditioning units at artic temperatures, which puts the strain on the electrical grid. They urge customers to set the thermostat at 78 degrees, allowing them to save 40 percent on their bill. However, not everyone agrees.

"That's way too hot for us," says Yonkers resident Toni O'Hanolon.

Other cost-cutting measures include using an energy-saving fan instead of an air conditioner and closing blinds and curtains.