If you're already getting hit with high air conditioning bills this summer, check out these tips from the professionals on how to save some money and still stay cool.

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Andrew Pukal, owner of Andrew's Heating and Cooling Service in Chapel Hill, said one of the best things people can do is have a professional come by before the summer months even start, to look at their AC unit. He said if you haven't done that already, now is a good time to start.

Next, be sure to clean your filters regularly.

"If you have pets and don't keep a clean house, make sure you get the filter changed at least once a month," he said.

And don't forget to insulate the line set on your AC unit and clean the coils.

"You spray it down with a degreaser and find a very soft brush and gently brush the coil," he said.

He also said it's important to seal air leaks in any duct work.

"You can do corners, creases, anywhere in duct work that has a leak, this'll take care of it," he said.

Pukal said they're all simple steps, that can save you a bundle.

As the Orange County reporter for NBC 17 News and MyNC.com (click here to read my bio), my job is to cover the local issues and events and impact the area. If you have a story idea, I'd love to hear about it. E-mail me at lhills@wncn.com and I'll get right back to you!

-Lauren