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From thousands in tax credits to five second fixes, there are many things you can do to cut your high energy bills during the dog days of summer. You can choose week long projects with a high price tag that will pay for the upgrade costs over time, or you can go the lazy route and push a few buttons. Either way, you can save some serious cash by cutting your energy usage during the summer months. For the serious weekend warrior, this article lists several items for you to breakout the tool belt and do your handyman routine. For those just looking to save a few bucks for yourself by pushing a few buttons don't worry, we've got some stuff for you too.

QUICK AND EASY FIXES

1.Set your thermostat 2 to 3 degrees higher than usual. If you have a programmable thermostat, adjust the temperature to increase during the times you are not there or during late night hours while you sleep.

2.Use you fan to increase airflow. Dynamic airflow will make the room more comfortable at high temperatures. Ever wonder why you love the ocean air even when its 100F?

3.In a multilevel home, chances are you have multiple thermostats. Set the upstairs temperature 1 to 2 degrees higher than the bottom/middle floor. The top floor will require the most energy, so only stay there for short periods of time (if possible).

4.Use air vent covers that direct airflow away from windows and towards the center of the home. Windows are the greatest source of temperature loss in a home (cooling or heating) so this should help retain as much cool air as possible..

5.Replace existing light bulbs with longer lasting, energy efficient light bulbs. These bulbs are touted to use 75% less energy and produce 75% less heat, which would also lower cooling costs.

These fixes while simple, might add up to a $100 or $200 if practiced regularly. It may seem trivial since the savings are relatively small, but at least its reducing energy consumption and cost to more manageable levels. However, for a moderate investment in time and money, you could see some substantial savings by completing the moderate projects below.

MODERATE INVESTMENTS IN TIME AND MONEY

1.Install energy efficient ceiling fans in rooms that are occupied for extended periods. An Energy Star rated ceiling fan saves twice as much electricity as a typical ceiling fan, plus the air flow it creates is much more cost efficient than using your AC system while generating the same cooling effect.

2.Plant trees to generate shade for the exterior of your home, particularly

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