1. Keep it Clean
Change your air filters. A dirty air filter causes the air to move slower, which makes your system work harder. They also cause dust buildup in your system, which can lead to even bigger problems like your AC going out in August.

2. Turn it Up
According to the Department of Energy, setting your thermostat at 78 degrees in the summer can save up to 10% in energy costs each year. Install a programable thermostat and program the temp to 80 degrees when you’re not home or the early hours of the morning.

3. Fans are Your Friend
Air movement from ceiling and floor fans are the trick to making you feel cooler. They can also move air from unused spaces like your dining room into a busier room like the kitchen.

4. Only Use Your Oven If You Have to
Not only does your oven use a lot of energy to heat up, but it also makes your house hotter, which makes your AC work more.

5. Seal Your Home
Dampen your hand and move it slowly in front of common leak sites, including wiring holes, windows, doors, vents, and attic entry points. If your hand feels cool, then you’ve found a leak. Fixing leaks with simple caulking and weather-stripping can save up to 30% on cooling and heating costs.

6. Wash Strategically
Washers, dryers, and dishwashers all generate a ton of heat. Cut back on this by washing clothes in cold water, wash only full loads of dishes and clothes, opt for air drying dishes by turning off your dishwasher heat dry setting, and do your washing in the evening when it won’t stress other systems.

7. Turn it Down
Chances are in the heat of summer, you’re not taking steaming hot showers, so turn down the temperature on your water heater to the warm setting of 120 degrees F. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, water heating can account for 14 – 25% of your total energy use.

8. Stay Shady
Keep your window shades down. Direct sunlight through windows makes your home hotter, which makes the AC work more.