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When the temperature climbs, so can your electric bill. With a few smart habits and upgrades, you can stay cool and keep more money in your pocket.

1. Use your thermostat wisely: Set your thermostat to 78 degrees or the highest comfortable setting during hotter months. Raising the temperature by 7-10 degrees for 8 hours a day can lower your annual cooling costs by up to 10%. Use fans to help circulate cool air and avoid cranking your thermostat down too low.

2. Keep your system running smoothly: Change air filters monthly during peak use. This can help improve your home’s air quality. Clearing obstructions away like leaves and debris from around your outdoor units to ensure good air flow is also important. Good air flow keeps your system running efficiently and avoids overworking it.

3. Schedule regular tune-ups: A yearly HVAC checkup helps prevent costly break-downs and keeps your system performing efficiently. You should also have your ductwork inspected every year. Leaky ducts can reduce efficiency by as much as 20%.

4. Install a programmable thermostat: Programmable or smart thermostats automatically adjust temperatures when you’re asleep, at work or on a vacation. Set it and forget it for effortless efficiency. You will be able to override preset programming, if needed, but remember you will use more energy and pay more if you consistently override the preprogrammed settings. If your programmable thermostat uses batteries, don’t forget to change them each year.

5. Consider an upgrade: If your system is over 10 years old or needs frequent repairs, replacing it with a high-efficiency heat pump can cut energy use by up to 50%. Heat pumps move heat rather than generate it, which makes them far more efficient. Plus, they help dehumidify your home - a big bonus during muggy months.

With a few smart habits, you can boost efficiency and get the most out of your energy dollars (and your HVAC unit). Small changes can equal savings.