Get with the program:
A programmable thermostat can save up to 10% on your cooling bill if you program it to dial up the temperature at night and when you're out of the house. Danny Lipford, host of the syndicated television show Today's Homeowner, says installing the thermostat is a simple job to do yourself, or you can ask your air-conditioning contractor to install the thermostat while inspecting the cooling system.

Plug leaks:
Although most people consider this a winter job, it's just as important in the summer. "One of the easiest, cheapest things you can do to reduce the cooling bill is seal cracks in the doors and windows," Weissman says. Use sealant or caulking to plug leaks between nonmoving parts, and weather stripping around moving parts such as doors and windows. Choose good quality materials that will expand and contract with weather changes.

Lighten up:
Just as you wear white clothing to stay cool in the summer, a light colored or reflective roof will absorb less heat. The Cool Roof Rating Council (coolroofs.org) can connect you to resources, members and appropriate products. Similarly, if it's time to repaint your house, consider a lighter color to better reflect the light.

Choose energy star qualified appliances:
They've met strict efficiency guidelines set by the Environmental Protection Agency and the U.S. Department of Energy. "Old appliances no only waste energy, they give off excess heat," Ackerly says. "The top heat producers are old refrigerators, dishwashers and dryers."

Insulate:
In warm climates, focus on the attic first. Heat rises through the house, and the sun beats down on the roof. "The attic can get up to 150 degrees in the summer," Lipford says. "If you're not insulated between that hot spot and the cooler temperature below, the air conditioner will have to work even harder to compete with the heat of the attic." He recommends at least 12 inches of attic insulation in the Southeast. Visit (simplyinsulate.org) for more insulation information.

Branch out:
Plant leafy trees to block the summer sun. According to the Department of Agriculture, a shade tree has the cooling effect of five air conditioners. Take cues from your house and note where the sun comes in hottest during the summer; where you plant will depend on the direction your house faces.

LEARN MORE: Visit Alliance to Save Energy (ase.org) and American Council for an Energy-Efficient Economy (aceee.org).

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