Here are some tips to help save money on your air conditioning bill.

1. Clean your filters. Dirty filter are harder to move air through so the fans have to work harder, which takes more power. Reduced airflow also means that the air conditioner needs to be on for a longer period of time to move the same amount of cool air.

2. Shade your unit. Air conditioning units which are in the direct sun are hotter and less efficient and use more power. Build a shade or, better yet, plant some trees to shade your condenser unit.

3. Clean the coils and fins of the condenser. This will improve air flow and lead to quicker cooling so that the unit does not have to run as long.

4. Clean up around the condenser. Storing materials around the condenser, having long grass, or shrubs around the unit all lead to decreased air flow into the unit. This means it will have to remain on longer, using more energy in the process. Clear the immediate area around the unit so that air flow is not obstructed.