Here's a handy list to follow:

• Place furniture away from the air conditioner and/or vents so nothing blocks the unit from performing efficiently.
• Perform a thorough inspection of your home to determine if there are any cracks or leaks or unnecessary openings that need to be tended to.
• Examine windows, doors, ceilings, porch area, roof, air conditioning unit(s), fireplace, cable holes.
• Seal up every crack, leak or opening you can find using caulk or weather-stripping as needed. Remember- these openings can cause a loss of cool air, forcing your air conditioning unit to work harder, resulting in a higher energy bill.
• Don't keep doors or windows open when running the air conditioner.
• Make sure the fireplace damper is fully shut before running your air conditioner.
• Limit running in and out of your home while the air conditioner is on.
• Make a thorough examination of all screens to ensure they do not have punctures or holes.
• Keep drapes and curtains open to maximize sunlight rather than electric light.
• Change filters and clean air conditioning units frequently to ensure peak efficiency.
• As little as three well-placed trees can lower the heat in your home and help save you anywhere from $100-$250 in energy bills this season.
• Install white blinds, drapes, curtains since white reflects heat away from your home. Close curtains on the south side and west side of your home during hot days.
• Don't place lamps or TV sets or any appliance that generates heat near your air conditioning thermostat.
• Clean dirt from heating system at end of season to avoid trapping moisture which can shorten a heater's life.
• When turning on the air conditioner, don't set thermostat at a colder setting than normal. It won't cool off the rooms faster and could result in excessive cooling and unnecessary expense.
• Using an interior fan along with your air conditioner can help the cool air circulate more efficiently.