Summer is almost here, and when temperatures begin to rise, many people can expect their electric bill to rise as well. When the hot weather hits, air conditioners will be working full blast sending a typically reasonable electric bill through the roof. With this being said, here are six ways to keep your house cool this summer and save money in the process.

Use the energy saver option on your AC. When you are not at home, use the energy saver option on your air conditioner rather than turning it off. The energy saver will keep your house at a cool temperature. If you turn off your air conditioner the temperature in your house will go up, and when you turn the unit back on it will need to work harder to cool your house down again, as a result increasing your electric bill.

Install ceiling fans. When you’re trying to save money on your electric bill during the summer, it is prudent to limit the use of the air conditioner to exceedingly hot days. Consequently, ceiling fans do not use nearly as much electricity as an air conditioning unit does. Well placed fans can keep cool air circulating in the house, and keep your home from feeling like a sauna. If you do not already have them installed in your home, consider purchasing ceiling fan units.

Change the AC filter. A dirty air conditioner filter can restrict air flow, and as a result your unit has to work harder in order to pump cool air through your home. The end result is an inefficient system that runs up your electric bill. Some filters need to be swapped out once per month, but it is best to check your unit to see what is recommended.

Keep some windows covered. This depends on which windows in your home get the most sun. To obstruct the windows with the most sun make sure you buy blinds or curtains to cover them. By doing this, you will be able to hinder some of the heat before it gets into your home.

Keep all needless lights turned off. Any kind of light gives off heat, which causes your AC to run longer. What’s more, consider switching to CFLs. Incandescent lights give off more than 90% heat and only 10% light, compared to CFLs, which provide the same lighting as incandescent bulbs but generate less heat and use 75% less energy.

Plant some trees. This does not assure an immediate savings, but as soon as the trees are taller, and bushier, you can save money. A tree that casts shade onto your AC unit will help it running more efficiently.

If you want to lower your electric bill, consider some of the tips above. They will help cut your bill during the summer months, and the money that you save can be used for summer vacation!