Even if you don’t have an air-conditioning system in your home, here are some suggestions for remaining as cool as possible during the summer months:

Your air-conditioning system usually makes up the majority of your electric bill for the summer months. That may sound like a lot, but it doesn’t mean your bills have to increase as much as you think. Here are some tips to make sure your home is as cool as it can be and your air-conditioning is operating as efficiently as possible:

Set your air-conditioner’s thermostat to 78 degrees; this is the optimum setting for comfort and economy.

Use bathroom exhaust fans to remove excess humidity after baths and showers.

Use ceiling, attic or box fans.

Shade windows from direct sunlight.

Use the Federal Trade Commission’s yellow Energy Guide Labels to compare operating expenses when shopping for major appliances, such as air-conditioners.

Wear appropriate clothing for warm weather.

Use heat-generating appliances, such as ovens, stoves, dryers, dishwashers, etc. early in the morning or late at night.

Raise the setting to 80 degrees when gone for more than 4 hours.

Caulk and weather-strip all windows and doors and any other areas where outside air can get in.

Ensure your home has proper insulation levels. R-30 in attics, R-11 in walls and R-19 in floors are recommended.

Have your air-conditioning system periodically inspected by a qualified technician at least every other year. Clean or replace air-conditioning filters when dirty or at least every other month.