Slash Your Summer Cooling Bill -- Savings Experiment

Summer is here and as the temperature continues to rise, you've probably noticed that your energy bill does, too. However, by following a few easy tips, you can keep the cool air flowing without overpaying.

First, if you have a window AC unit, put it in a spot that doesn't get a lot of sun. By keeping it cool, the unit will run up to 10 percent more efficiently, and save you money in the long run. Once you've found a window with shade, seal the perimeter with some weather stripping to keep the cold air from escaping. You can pick some up at the hardware store for under 10 bucks.

Another easy way to keep your AC unit running smoothly, is by cleaning the filter once a month. Simply pop open the front cover and slide out the filter. Then, rinse it with warm water until all of the dirt and debris is gone. Once it's completely dry, put the filter back in its slot and you're good to go. By doing this regularly, you'll reduce the amount of energy your air conditioner uses by up to 15 percent, which means a lower electricity bill for you each month.

Next, if you have central air, use a programmable thermostat so that you don't waste money cooling off the house while no one's home. When you are home, keep it set to 78 degrees. It's a great balance. You'll still feel cool and comfortable and by keeping it set to that magic number, you can knock up to 20 percent off your bill.

Finally, one of the best ways to lower your cooling bill is by using a ceiling fan. Not only will it allow you to set your thermostat to a higher temperature, they cost less than a penny an hour to run. And since you can pick one up at a home improvement store for as little as $40, it's a really affordable way to keep cool.

Remember these tips to save on your energy bill this summer. You'll see that with a few small adjustments, you can keep your house cool without breaking the bank.

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