Here are a dozen easy-to-implement tips to keep you cool and save money.

• On hot days, delay heat-generating activities such as dish washing until evening.
• Keep the house closed tight during the day. Don’t let in unwanted heat and humidity. Ventilate at night either naturally or with fans.
• Use ceiling fans to increase comfort levels at higher thermostat settings. The standard comfort range for light clothing in the summer is between 72 F and 78 F. A ceiling fan can provide air flow that can extend the comfort range to 82 F.
• Buy a high-efficiency central air conditioner. Look for a seasonal energy efficiency ratio (SEER) rating above 13.
• Mini-blinds can reduce solar heat gain by 40 to 50 percent.
• Maintain your air conditioner annually to maximize efficiency.
• If you have an older central air conditioner, consider replacing the outdoor compressor with a high-efficiency unit. Make sure that it is properly matched to the indoor unit.
• If buying a new air conditioner, be sure that it is properly sized. Your Mid-State Refrigeration home comfort consultant can help here.
• Try not to use a dehumidifier at the same time your air conditioner is operating. The dehumidifier will increase the cooling load and force the air conditioner to work harder.
• Seal all air conditioner ducts, and insulate ducts that run through unheated basements, crawl spaces, and attics.
• Don’t air condition unused rooms.
• Clean your A/C’s air filter every month during cooling season. Normal dust build-up can reduce air flow by 1 percent per week.