Happy Summer Solstice! 7 ways to trim your summer energy bill.

Summer solstice is here, and your  home energy costs will rise right along with the temperature. Here are seven easy ways to keep cool and save money on your energy bill.

3. Install a programmable thermostat

Steve Marcus/Reuters/File
A Trane ComfortLink II thermostat is displayed in Las Vegas in this 2011 file photo. Programmable thermostats reduce bills by optimizing your energy use, and can save up to $180 per year.

According to the EPA, a programmable thermostat can save as much as $180 over the course of a year. Basic models can be purchased for as low as $25 - though you'll probably want to hire a professional to install it.

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