With temperatures pushing the 90-degree mark, your air conditioner is already hard at work. As your air conditioner runs more, your electric bills go higher.

“It's normal for your home's energy use to rise as temperatures climb,” says Walton EMC's Howard Turner. “That's because the air conditioner is the largest energy user in most homes and small businesses.”

But you don’t have to sit by and do nothing. There are many ways you can help your air conditioner work more efficiently and reduce its operating cost.

Tips to help keep summer heat at bay:

• Close curtains and blinds to block the sun’s rays.
• Minimize window and door openings.
• Avoid cooking and baking during hot afternoons.
• Add attic insulation to a minimum of R-30 if needed.
• Install storm windows if your windows are only single pane.
• Seal cracks with caulk and weatherstripping. Our EnergySavers store has everything you need.

How you can help your air conditioner:

• Use box and ceiling fans to circulate air for a wind chill effect. Then set the air conditiner thermostat to a higher temperature.
• Make sure its vents are free of rugs, furniture and other obstructions.
• Change the filter regularly. Visit FilterChange for free reminders.
• Remove debris or items from around the outdoor unit.
• Have a licensed contractor check the unit.