For Floridians, a pricey electricity bill during the summer is just par for the course. According to the Florida Public Service Commission, the cost to cool your home can increase 12% for each degree setting below 78 degrees. But, there are relatively simple and effective ways to help keep your AC costs down without having to adjust your thermostat at all.

1. Create shade for your roof. Much of the heat that enters your home from the sun comes in via the roof. Planting shady trees around your home will help block out some of that heat. Head to a nursery and find some strong 15 or 20 ft. shade trees, and within a few years, your trees will provide your home with significant shade from the hot sun.