If it's after Memorial Day that means we can start talking about summer weather, right? (I say this even though it's cold and rainy in Chicago right now.

So as temperatures do, eventually, start to warm up, it’s time to start thinking about ways to keep your temperature and your energy bills down. Luckily, it can be done. Here’s how.

• Don’t ignore the old advice. Though you’ve probably heard this suggestion a hundred times, it never hurts to repeat it: turn off appliances you’re not using. This goes for computers, TVs, radios, phone chargers, etc.
• Check your air filters. Old, clogged air filters can decrease the efficiency of your air conditioner and heater, meaning you’ll use more energy and get less benefit. At the start of each season, replace old filters with fresh ones. Some estimates say a clean air filter could save you 5 percent a month.
• Take advantage of more sunlight: Instead of turning on lights whenever you enter a room, see if you can rely on natural lighting. Plus, in the summer, fewer lights on means less heat released into the room.
• Power down the computer. If you’re at home more during the summer, you may be tempted to leave your computer on all day. But this can guzzle energy and produce more heat. Shut down or put into sleep mode machines you aren’t using.
• Cook at night. If possible, use the oven and stove during cooler hours of the day to avoid over-heating the house. Dishes like pasta salad, chicken salad and fresh fruit taste great chilled and can be made ahead of time. If you can’t prepare food before meals, try grilling – it’ll keep the heat outside.
• Try windows and fans. Fans use less energy than air conditioning, so if you can stand it, try to cool your house without using the AC.According to a recent story by the Dallas Morning News, for every degree below 78 you set your thermostat expect to pay 5-7 percent more for your utility bill at the end of the month.
• Guzzle yourself cool. Never underestimate the power of cool drinks like iced tea, lemonade and plain old water. Keeping yourself well hydrated is one way to make the heat seem less oppressive.
• Adjust automatic appliances: If you have a timer for outdoor lights or a thermostat, make sure you take advantage of it. Keep the house warmer when you’re away and save the AC for when you’re home. And make sure automatic lights don’t come on until the sun’s down.
• Close the curtains: Using heavy curtains to block harsh sunlight really can lower the heat in your house.
• Look for Energy Star: If you’re in the market for new appliances, look for ones with high energy ratings. And use them wisely. This means only do full loads of dishes and laundry and use cold water.

Remember, a little savings can go a long way. A 5 percent savings may not sound like much, but if your bill is $200 a month then you could save $30 by the end of August. And that's enough to buy ice cream for everyone on Labor Day.

If you're doing everything you can to cut back and you're still struggling to make ends meet, it may be time to think about filing bankruptcy.

Tags: bills, energy bills, personal finance, saving money