There’s a lot you can do this summer to save energy. The same insulation and weather-stripping that saved energy during the winter months will show you benefits during the summer as well. Even so, there are a few things you can still do during the hot weather that can help.
Don’t Overwork Your AC
Your air conditioner has enough work to do. If you’ve already chosen the most efficient air conditioner you could find and even made sure it’s the right size for your living space, there’s still more you can do to help improve its efficiency.
• During the daytime, close curtains and blinds to keep the house as cool as possible and reduce the load on your air conditioner.
• If you turn up the setting by a couple degrees on your air conditioner, you’ll notice the savings more than you will the temperature.
• By also using a dehumidifier, you will feel cooler in the reduced humidity, even with the air conditioner turned up a few degrees.
• If you are using a window-type air conditioner, try to install it in a space where there is shade. A tree, awning, or porch roof can provide valuable shade, which enables it to run more efficiently.
Don’t Make More Heat
• Chores that produce heat (and moisture) should be delayed until the cooler parts of the day. If possible, try to avoid using the oven, dishwasher, and laundry room on hot, humid days. Your home could be made even more uncomfortable will require your cooling appliances to work even harder.
• Cook with small appliances if possible. If the job can be done in your toaster oven or electric skillet, you’ll use less energy than the oven or range. Microwave ovens can reduce cooking time and don’t put out a lot of heat which can save energy on both ends. Better yet, use the outdoor grill whenever possible.
• Electronics produce a lot of heat, even on standby. Try not to leave computers, televisions and other electronic equipment turned on if you don’t need them. You will use unnecessary electricity and create unwanted heat.
Moving the Air
• Ceiling fans are more than just attractive. In many cases, they are all you need to sufficiently move the air and keep comfortable. For summer cooling, it is best to change the rotation to counter-clockwise, producing a comfortable, cooling breeze.
• Be sure to turn off bathroom and kitchen fans when no longer needed. As long as they are running, cool air is being pulled from your home!
• A properly ventilated attic can make a big difference in cooling your home. If you don’t think you’ve done enough to ventilate your attic, stop in and ask us. We’ll be happy to discuss what options are available today.
