Fans and air conditioners have been running overtime during this recent string of hot days. If you’re concerned about higher-than-normal electric bills, I have some information and resources to share.

You may already be taking steps such as keeping window shades and blinds closed during the day to keep out the heat of the sun, opening windows at night to let the cool air in, and cooking meals outside on the grill to avoid heating up the kitchen. Those steps can help save energy and cool down your home so you’re relying less on your air conditioning.

Even if you’re trying to conserve energy, your electric bills may be higher than expected because of recent heat waves. The U.S. Department of Energy has these suggestions for helping your home feel more comfortable while saving energy:

Use fans to circulate air. Set ceiling fans to turn counterclockwise to push air down and help you feel cooler.

Turn off fans, lights and appliances when you leave the room.

Use a programmable thermostat for central air conditioning systems. If you leave home for long periods during the day, they recommend setting the temperature about 7 degrees higher during the time you’ll be away.

Change or clean filters on both stand-alone AC units and HVAC systems as recommended by the manufacturer.

Schedule regular maintenance for your system.

An energy assessment can help renters and homeowners make their spaces more efficient. Mass Save offers a free service to help identify energy-saving measures. For example, Mass Save can identify where cool air may be escaping from a home and seal up any gaps. More information can be found at masssave.com or by calling 1-866-527-7283. If you need to upgrade your equipment, Mass Save can also offer rebates on certain air conditioners, programmable thermostats, heating systems and appliances.

If you are having a hard time paying your electric bill, you may qualify for a discounted rate from the electric company. If you’re already receiving fuel assistance or qualify for certain public benefits programs based on your income, ask if you qualify for a discounted rate through your electric company by calling the customer service number that is listed on your billing statement or by checking the utility company’s website.

If you’re not eligible for a reduced rate, one option is to contact the electric company about a budget billing plan. The way it works is the electric company estimates your usage for the year, divides the total by 12 months, and you pay the same amount each month. At the end of the year, they check how much electricity has been used, and you will receive a credit if you overpaid or a bill if you underpaid.

Reach out to the electric company if you’ve fallen behind or cannot pay the full amount. The company can work with consumers to set up a payment plan or may have other options that can help you avoid getting your power shut off if you have overdue bills.

Consumers experiencing a temporary financial hardship and who don’t qualify for state or federal assistance can find more information about the Salvation Army’s Good Neighbor Energy Fund online at magoodneighbor.org/assistance.html or by calling 800-262-1320. Renters who are facing financial hardship can apply for emergency assistance to help pay rent or utility costs through the Residential Assistance for Families in Transition (RAFT) program at mass.gov/how-to/apply-for-raft-emergency-help-for-housing-costs or by calling 211 to find their local RAFT agency.

If you have a question about this or another consumer topic, you may call the Northwestern District Attorney’s Greenfield Office at 413-774-3186 or the Northampton Office at 413-586-9225, or check the consumer page at northwesternda.org.

Anita Wilson is the director of the Northwestern District Attorney’s Office Consumer Protection Unit, which is a Local Consumer Program working in cooperation with the Office of the Massachusetts Attorney General.