4. Avoid using your oven

No, we are not suggesting that you’re a terrible cook, what we’re trying to say it’s that you should avoid using your oven when your air conditioning is cooling your house. Being smart about it could save you many dollars in the long run.

One of the best ways to reduce your indoor temperature during the hot season is to avoid using your oven and stovetop. Instead, use your microwave, or fire up the grill in your backyard. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, air conditioners consume approximately six percent of all the electricity produced in our country. This actually translates to almost $29 billion every single year.

Now that you have some cooking restrictions, maybe it’s time to turn to other relaxing activities such as gardening. Planting some leafy trees around your house in order to block the sun could have a huge impact on your energy bills. Plus, you will beautify your yard.