FUL KEEP COOL AND CARRY ON

The heat is on … and we’re all looking for creative ways to cool down our homes without cranking up the AC. After all, air conditioning can be 50 percent or more of your electric bill. Try these ideas to keep cool without breaking the bank.

First off, it’s time to get accustomed with the south and west sides of your home, which is where things really get hot during the summer months. Plant low deciduous trees, such as mesquite, desert willow, and willow acacia, on these sides of your home and the leaves will help block out the sun. Studies show planting shade trees can cut cooling expenses by 15 to 35 percent, according to the Arizona State University Office of Climatology.

It may surprise you that up to 50 percent of the heat that enters your home come through the windows. Which is why installing awnings and shade screens is such a smart move. Even simply closing the binds and curtains can cool things down. At the very least, give your windows a weatherization check to ensure that heat isn’t creeping in through cracks and crevices.

Running appliances can also cause your home to warm up and increase the electric bill. Try using the dishwasher and washing machine early in the morning or after dark when it’s cooler. And opt for grilling out, rather than heating up the house by using the oven. And that ceiling fan? Make sure it’s blowing down (it should spin counter-clockwise to cool you). Fans use about one-tenth the energy of your AC. Just remember to turn ceiling fans off when you leave the room. Keep the lights off when possible and replace incandescent bulbs with compact fluorescent bulbs, which emit much less heat.

Of course, most of us will use the air conditioner. Just make sure your system is in good working order. Get a yearly inspection and replace air filters and repair any leaky ducts. New energyefficient AC units can also save money in the long run. When your AC is running, set it to 78 to 80 degrees when you’re home and try 85 degrees when you’re out. Installing a smart thermostat will allow you to set the temperature with the touch of your phone so you aren’t cooling an empty house. And finally, if the temps dip at night, open the windows to enjoy that cool air for sleeping.