As summer heat intensifies, and Alabamians are cranking up the air conditioning, the federal government is offering tips to stop cooling costs from spiking.

Last year, officials recommended setting thermostats to 78 degrees, advice that was promptly mocked and ignored by millions of overheated Americans.

This year, the feds avoided recommending a specific temperature (and the energy efficiency program that made those recommendations is under threat of budget cuts). But there is a method to the madness of setting a temperature that helps you stay cool while avoiding burning through your wallet.

Last year, the average Alabama Power customer paid $180 per month for electricity in most major cities in the state.

Adjust your thermostat

Use a programmable thermostat to raise temperature settings during hours the house is empty.

“You can save as much as 10% a year on heating and cooling by simply turning your thermostat back 7°-10°F for 8 hours a day from its normal setting,” according to the U.S. Department of Energy.

Many A/C manufacturers recommend setting thermostats to 78° F most of the time, moving it up at least 7° F if you’re out during the day, before dropping back to 78° F in the evening when you return.

Raise the temperature at night

As temperatures drop at night, people should set thermostats 4 degrees warmer when they go to sleep.

Use ceiling fans

Fans can be helpful to cool down people who are inside. The department advises turning them off when no one is around since they will not cool the room itself.

Other tips for energy efficiency

• Schedule regular maintenance for your AC system
• Make sure no furniture is blocking air vents
• Wash full loads of laundry and dishes for energy efficiency
• Caulk and add weatherstripping to seal cracks around doors and windows
• Keep your water heater setting at 120 degrees Fahrenheit
• Install window coverings to keep the house cool

For rooms that don’t seem to cool down, have your ductwork checked for leaks or poor insulation. Energy Star suggests replacing heating and cooling equipment every 10 years.