(NAPSI)\u2014After over a year of staying close to home, lots of people are ready for summer fun. However, warm days can mean much higher energy bills\u2014but you can do something about that.<\/p>\n
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency\u2019s ENERGY STAR program has a few tips to help you prep your home so you can save energy and money all summer long.<\/p>\n
Step #1:\u00a0<\/strong>Get Your HVAC System Ready: Check your air filters monthly. A dirty air filter will slow down air flow and make the system work harder to keep you cool\u2014wasting energy.<\/p>\n Step #2:<\/strong>\u00a0Get Smart About Your Thermostat Use: The average home spends $1,900 per year on utility bills, nearly half going to heating and cooling. The more you spend on those bills the more you could save with an ENERGY STAR-certified smart thermostat\u2014up to $100 a year.<\/p>\n Step #3:<\/strong>\u00a0Cool Your Home Efficiently: If you\u2019re in the market for a new room air conditioner, choose one that\u2019s earned the ENERGY STAR label. Certified models cost less than $70 per year to run, on average. If your HVAC cooling equipment is more than 10 years old, it may be time to consider a replacement. Check out the ENERGY STAR Heating and Cooling guide to choose the right equipment to help you save energy (energystar.gov\/hvacguide<\/a>). Select products even come with substantial tax credits.<\/p>\n