Summer is here, and the heat and humidity are rolling in. While we generally take air-conditioning for granted, it can be an expensive luxury.

Here's 5 ways to immediately start saving money on keeping your home cool.

  • Danny V_Townsquare Media
    Danny V_Townsquare Media
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    1

    Change the Filter

    Air will flow through your unit with greater efficiency if you change your A/C's filter regularly. If it's dirty or clogged, it's working too hard and will cost you more money.

  • Danny V_Townsquare Media
    Danny V_Townsquare Media
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    2

    Use the Ceiling Fan...Properly

    During the summer you want the fan to blow air straight down, so your ceiling fan needs to run in a counter clockwise direction (as you look up at it). The warmer it is, the higher the speed should be.

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    clipart
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    3

    Pull the Drapes

    Direct sunlight in any part of your home will cause heat pockets. Pull the drapes when you leave for a cooler home when your return. This should include all south and west facing windows in the summer.

  • Amazon.com
    Amazon.com
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    4

    Buy a Programmable Thermostat

    According to CBSNews, using a programmable thermostat can save you a whopping $180 per year! It saves energy by automatically turning itself down when you're away and remembers the temperatures you like and programs itself. I haven't installed one myself but they say they're easy to install.

  • Danny V_Townsquare Media
    Danny V_Townsquare Media
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    5

    Upgrade to New Energy Star Unit

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