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Keep Your House Cool — For Less

Lower your energy bill with these commonsense tactics.

Long, sunny summer days are pure joy — until you get the utility bill. The good news is “there are plenty of ways to keep cool and still keep air conditioning costs down,” says Chris Kielich of the U.S. Department of Energy. Here are several ways to slash your monthly energy bill.

Upgrade your air conditioner. A more efficient air conditioner model that has the Energy Star label (energystar.gov) can save you up to 50%. Also, consider purchasing a programmable thermostat that allows you to set the temperature a bit higher at night or when no one is home. If you‘re sticking with your current unit, be sure to clean the filters, monthly or as needed, so it functions optimally. And don‘t neglect the coils — dirt buildup is the No. 1 reason for a poorly operating AC.

Go with the flow. You can cut AC costs by using a fan to help spread the cool air throughout your house. On breezier days, turn off the AC and just run your ceiling or oscillating fans.

A bright idea. Turn off lights when you don‘t need them, and switch to compact fluorescent bulbs — they use two-thirds less energy than standard lighting, generate 70% less heat and last up to 10 times longer.

Made in the shade. An AC unit operating in the shade uses less electricity, so plant trees or shrubs around yours — just be careful not to block the airflow. In addition, close window treatments (shades or blinds) when you head to work and plant deciduous trees — those that lose their leaves in the fall — to shade west-facing windows, so that you‘re not blocking any sunlight in the winter.

Keep cool air inside. Air leaks can cause a serious waste of energy. Reduce costs by up to 20% through caulking, weather-stripping and maintaining the proper insulation in your attic floor.

Fire up the grill. Using an outdoor grill or even a microwave instead of your oven will keep the heat out of your kitchen, so you won‘t have to crank up the AC.