Summer is hot in many parts of the country, and many people are looking for ways to lower their costs. Homeowners can prevent energy bills from skyrocketing by weatherizing their homes for the summer.

1. Seal Around Doors and Windows

Air leaks can account for up to 30% of energy loss in a home. Homeowners can fix leaks with weatherstripping or caulking. Be sure to remove old weatherstripping before putting new material in. Replacing door sweeps and tightening the jambs of outdoor doors can also reduce the energy used.

2. Attic Insulation

Attics can easily surpass 100 degrees in the summer. There are foam insulation benefits for both the attic and the energy bill. Even if the attic is insulated, adding another layer can help cool it even more. Adding a radiant barrier can also help.

3. Install a Vent in the Attic

Attic fans remove hot air and pull cooler air in from outside. This ventilation also removes moisture from the house and helps protect shingles on the roof. Ensure the attic is well-ventilated first and that soffit vents aren’t blocked.

4. Fix Broken Windows

If a window is broken, homeowners should replace it as soon as possible because it is a safety hazard. When installing new windows, choose a window with triple or double-pane glass and Low-E coating to ensure the most efficiency.

5. Seal Leaky Ducts

Many homeowners find tears, loose connections, and duct gaps that allow cool air to seep into attics and crawl spaces. Homeowners should seal these leaks to save hundreds of dollars. Homeowners can easily use duct or heat-approved tape to seal up holes. Some larger holes or problems may require calling a professional.

6. Use LED Bulbs

Regular incandescent bulbs use more energy and have shorter lifespans than LED bulbs. Homeowners should consider replacing old-fashioned incandescent light bulbs with efficient LED bulbs that are cool to the touch and last for many years.

7. Plant Shade Trees

Planting shade trees within the view of west and east-facing windows decreases the work an air conditioner must do. Homeowners may want to talk with a landscaper or arborist before choosing a permanent placement for new trees.

8. Reverse Ceiling Fans

In the summer, ceiling fans should turn counterclockwise. This creates a cool downdraft. In the wintertime, they should rotate clockwise. The cool downdraft in the summertime cools the skin, not the air, so homeowners should turn fans off in unoccupied rooms. Homeowners should also set their thermostats higher if the fans make it comfortable.

9. Energy Efficient Window Treatments

The sunlight is hot. Energy-efficient blinds, curtains, or shades can block out the sun during the hottest times of the day. While heavy drapes or blackout curtains are energy efficient, they also darken a home. Consider using cellular blinds, or honeycomb blinds, for natural light and protection from the heat.

10. Use a Smart Thermometer

Programmable thermostats allow homeowners to schedule house cooling based on when people are home. Smart thermostats connect to the Wi-Fi and is controlled with an app from anywhere. Smart thermostats can also make automatic adjustments based on previous settings.

Homeowners who want to bring their energy bills down can use one or more of these tips to see a noticeable change in their energy bills. That means more money in the bank.