As summer temperatures rise across the US, so do yourenergy bills.

Experts have even predicted 2024 to be thehottest year on recordworldwide.

In many parts of the country, this means you might be running yourair conditionerfor months at a time.

Here are a few ways to save money on energy costs this summer.

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In the 1960s, Americans could expect an average of twoheat wavesper year.

But ever since the 2010s, an average of six heat waves have occurred per year.

The length of an average heat wave season in 50 American cities has nearly tripled.

This means more households than ever are turning on theACearlier and running it for longer periods of time.

“If those are dirty, it’s going to mess things up.”

It might not seem like it, but you’ll actually use less energy this way.

“The less it has to actually turn on, the better.

That longer run time actually works out to pennies on the dollar in terms of energy consumption.”

That doesn’t mean you should never adjust your thermostat, however.

The US Department of Energy recommends setting your thermostat to a warmer temperature during the summer.

They recommend turning your thermostat up anywhere from 7-10 degrees for eight hours each day.

This could save you up to 10% on your annual energy bills.

Getting ahome energy auditis a great first step.

They’ll also look for places to beef up insulation and make other recommendations for a moreenergy-efficient home.

Some utilities offer free or reduced-cost energy audits.

Be on the lookout for any visible gaps or areas along windows and doors whereweatherstrippingis worn down.

Once you’ve identified trouble spots, seal them up with new weatherstripping or caulk.

If the leaks are significant enough, a whole-house wrap can close those gaps and reduce heat gain.

The easiest way to do this is by simply keeping blinds and curtains closed throughout the day.

But it can take years for some plants to grow large enough to offer this benefit.

“Windows are where all the heat pours in,” Prchal said.

“Window coverings like blinds and films can significantly reduce the amount of heat that enters your home.”

“They’re an awesome option.”

More moisture in the air means your AC unit has to work harder to dehumidify your home.

Higher humidity can also make your space feel warmer than drier air at the same temperature.

Running your AC in fan-only mode can make its cooling function less effective for the same reason.

Radocaj cautions against leaving your air conditioner’s fan on while the unit isn’t cooling.

Quick and easy upgrades like installingLED light bulbsand usingsmart plugsandpower stripscan help cut down on vampire energy use.

Even simple things like always running full loads in your washing machine or dishwasher can make a difference.