The amount we spend on utility bills from month to month varies — especially when the season changes. No matter where you live in the US, there’s a good chance the heat of the summer means you’ll end up paying more for energy.

With a little planning, however, you may be able to cut the cost of cooling and lower your electric bill.

How to save money and lower your electric bill during the summer1. Schedule routine HVAC maintenance

A heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system uses up a lot of energy in your house. By scheduling ongoing HVAC checks, tune-ups, and cleaning, you can ensure your HVAC system runs efficiently this summer.

“The importance of maintenance may change a little depending on where you are in the U.S., but biannual maintenance is the baseline,” says Joey Dooley, a general manager at American Residential Services in Texas.

Call a contractor to check your system before the summer heat kicks in. Or, consider purchasing an HVAC service contract, which includes ongoing maintenance from contractors and discounts on parts.

2. Adjust your thermostat habits

You’ll use less energy if you set your thermostat a little higher than usual in the summer. Try turning up the temperature two or three degrees to a setting that is still comfortable.

You may also consider a programmable thermostat, which lets you set the temperature so the house is warmer when you’re away and cooler when you’re home.

3. Install ceiling fans

You can cut back on energy by using ceiling fans instead of turning your thermostat down and blasting the air conditioning. When you leave the house, turn off the fans to continue saving energy.

Depending on how high-end a fan you want, you could spend anywhere from $50 to $650 on one ceiling fan, give or take. If you also want a professional to install the fan for you, you’re looking at roughly $100 to $600 more per fan.

4. Use your washer and dryer less often

Washing and drying your clothes is another major energy drain in your home. Tweaking your laundry habits gives you another big opportunity to reduce your energy bill.

Try only doing laundry when you have full loads, rather than throwing four or five articles of clothing into the wash at a time. Some people prefer to hand wash their delicates, which is one way to use your washing machine less often. A lot of clothes can also be hang-dried, which keeps them out of the dryer.

5. Change your water heater settings

Heating your water also uses up a lot of energy. Many people love hot showers, but you might be comfortable taking slightly cooler showers in the summer.

If you aren’t attached to scalding showers, lower your water heater temperature by a few degrees to save on energy. A temperature of 120 degrees is usually a safe bet during warmer months.

6. Switch to a time-of-use plan

If your lifestyle lets you use most of your electricity early in the morning or late at night, consider signing up for a time-of-use plan with your energy company. These plans charge higher rates during peak periods and lower rates when demand is lower.

If you switch to a time-of-use electricity plan, use your dishwasher, washing machine, and dryer either in the early morning or right before you go to bed. It’s dangerous to leave your oven on overnight, but cooking early in the morning or late in the evening can still save money.

7. Stop heat and humidity from seeping into your home

Outside heat can creep into your house through the windows, walls, and roof. This warms the inside of your home, making you want to crank up the AC to feel more comfortable. But there are a few strategies for keeping out the heat.

You can add energy-efficient options like:

Blinds, window panels, shades, or shuttersAwnings and solar screensCaulk or weatherstripping felt or foam

There are several ways to lower your summer energy bill and stay comfortable during the heat while keeping your energy costs low.

Created by the Commerce team at Business Insider with ARS/Rescue Rooter.