• Have your air conditioner and heat pump serviced by a licensed contractor.
• Check the attic insulation, R-30 (8 to 10 inches) of insulation is recommended. If the ceiling joists are not covered with insulation, it is a good investment to have more added.
• If your home has air conditioning and evaporative cooling, be sure to replace the cooler’s baffle sheet before switching to air conditioning.
• Install a high-efficiency heat pump when it’s time to replace your air conditioner or gas furnace.
• Cover windows with awnings, sunscreens or reflective film to keep out the heat.
• Keep your heat pump or air conditioner’s filter clean. Check it once a month.
• Make sure to turn off your heat pump or air conditioning prior to opening exterior doors or windows for fresh air.
• Set your thermostat at 79 degrees or higher. For every degree warmer, you’ll save 2 to 3 percent on the air conditioning portion of your electric bill.
• Keep windows and doors shut when the air conditioning is on.
• Check caulking around doors and windows.
• Consider automatic door closers for entry and sliding glass (arcadia) doors.

• Close draperies on the sunny side of the house to block the sun’s rays.

• Use light colors to reflect heat and reduce cooling costs, when painting your home or replacing the roof.

• Plant deciduous trees to add shade in summer and let the sun through in the winter

• Plant small shrubbery near the foundation of your home to shade the lower half of outer walls. Plant three feet from the wall to prevent water damage.

• Use fans to circulate air and make you feel cooler at a higher thermostat setting.

• Do moisture-producing chores in the early morning or at night when it’s cooler. This includes washing clothes or dishes, mopping floors, watering indoor plants, etc.

Information Courtesy of APS