Two-thirds of households in America have air conditioners, according to the U.S. Department of Energy — and they spend a total $11 billion each year running them.

Our guess is that most of those households (which may include yours!) wouldn’t mind spending a little less to keep their homes cool. Because as great as it feels to escape the heat of summer, having some extra money in your account at the end of the month might feel even better.

Don’t unwittingly turn the ‘heat’ on. Are you making something in your oven? Cooking something on the stove? You’re also adding heat to your house. Try grilling outside or eating cold foods.

Bigger projects can have big benefits: Make sure your attic and walls are insulated well and check your ducts for air loss. If you don’t already have a programmable thermostat, installing one can help you save up to 10% on cooling costs.

Reposted with permission from the original author, Safeco Insurance®.