FreeMoneyFinance has six tips to keep your energy bill from overheating this summer:

1. Have your duct system tested for leaks; up to 40% of the energy put out by a central AC system can seep through leaky ducts;
2. Ask for a "blower test." Though not as fun as it sounds, a blower tests reveals where precious cold air is escaping from your home;
3. Close your fireplace damper;
4. Replace your air conditioner filter;
5. Clean and tune your air conditioner;
6. Upgrade aging equipment. If your AC is old, a new Energy Star compliant model could save a bundle. Look for a model with a high energy efficiency ratio (EER.)

For more energy-savings tidbits, check out our archives. They are chock-full of valuable tips. — CAREY GREENBERG-BERGER

Six Easy Steps to Lower Your Cooling Bills [FreeMoneyFinance]
(Photo: Lazy_Lightning)_