The intense heat of summer can cause energy bills to skyrocket. This is particularly true in southern Arizona, where the summer temperatures frequently reach the triple digits. However, there are some simple steps you can take to lower your energy costs by making your home or apartment more energy-efficient.

Here are some tips to help you lower your energy bill this summer:

1. Clean your filter. You should clean or change your heat pump filter once a month to increase airflow. When you wait too long between changes it forces your unit to work harder and also decreases air quality in your home. Not only does this result in higher energy bills, but it also causes your HVAC unit to need replacement sooner than it normally would.
2. Raise the temperature on your thermostat. This is one of the easiest ways to save money on your energy bill. Turn the thermostat up when you are away from home to save even more money.
3. Decrease drafts in your home. A few small leaks around the house can end up being the equivalent of leaving a window open all year long. An easy way to combat drafts is to place a rolled bath towel against any drafty doors. Weather stripping is easy to install and can help to lower your energy bill. You can also seal problem areas with caulk or foam.
4. Keep curtains and blinds closed on sunny days to keep out additional solar heat.
5. Don’t cool rooms you aren’t using. Instead, keep the door closed and shut the vents in any unused rooms. This will save you money by lightening the load on your air-conditioning unit.
6. Use heat-generating appliances like clothes dryers and ovens early in the morning or late at night.

Whether you own your own home or rent, saving money on your energy bill this summer will allow you to be able to afford to do more of the activities you enjoy.