As spring arrives, it's the perfect time to boost your home's energy efficiency and prepare for warmer weather.

Here are a few simple tips:

• Spring cleaning: Clean under and behind your refrigerator to keep it operating efficiently. Dust light bulbs to get more light for your money. If you have a sliding glass door, wash the track. Dirt buildup can damage the door seal and create gaps where cool air can escape.
• Switch to LED bulbs: If you haven’t already, replace incandescent bulbs with energy-efficient LEDs. These use less energy and last longer, saving you money in the long run.
• Seal air leaks: Gaps and cracks in doors and windows send conditioned air, and your energy dollars, outside. Weatherstrip exterior doors and seal windows with caulk. Check for any gaps around outdoor plumbing and wiring access and seal with expanding foam insulation.
• Install ceiling fans: Ceiling fans circulate the air, making rooms feel cooler, which means you can raise the temperature setting up to 4°F without compromising comfort. Remember that ceiling fans only make you feel cooler, not the room. Turn them off in empty rooms to avoid wasting energy.
•  Check your HVAC system: Hire a qualified professional to inspect and clean your air conditioning system. Replace the system's air filter monthly or as recommended by the manufacturer to ensure your HVAC system runs efficiently.
•  Optimize thermostat settings: As temperatures rise, adjust your thermostat to avoid overcooling (and wasting energy). Set it a few degrees higher when you're away. If you haven't done so already, install a programmable thermostat. It will optimize savings and add convenience by adjusting the temperature to fit your schedule—automatically!
•  Use natural ventilation: Open windows and let fresh spring air flow through your home (before pollen fills the air!). Use fans to circulate the cool air and reduce the need for air conditioning.
•  Shade your windows: As temperatures climb, use blinds, curtains or shades to block out direct sunlight during the hottest part of the day. This helps maintain a cooler indoor temperature and reduces the need for air conditioning.