Summertime Energy Conservation
When it gets hot outside, your first instinct is to run over and crank the air conditioning system – right? After all, that’s why you have it! Instead of letting your air conditioning equipment cause your utility bills to spike more than you’d like them to, consider doing other things around the home to offset the energy costs associated with running your home cooling system. Here are a few tips that you can use to reduce energy usage in your home!
Put your windows to work…
If it gets cool enough on summer nights, open your windows while sleeping. When you wake up, shut the windows and blinds to trap the cool air inside. There are also window treatments available that can help prevent heat gain through your windows.
Use your thermostat wisely!
Set your thermostat as high as comfortably possible in the summer! The smaller the difference between indoor and outdoor temperatures, the lower your overall cooling bill will be. Programmable thermostats can also help save energy but automatically turning down your AC system when you’re asleep or not home.
Become a fan of using fans and ventilation
A ceiling fan will allow you to raise the thermostat about 4º without reducing your comfort Using bathroom fans will remove excess heat and humidity while you shower. And, ensure the vent in your laundry room is clear of debris!
Avoid heating your home with appliances and lighting
Try not using the oven on hot days – use a microwave or grill outside instead. Also, replace your incandescent light bulbs with LED bulbs, they don’t run hot like incandescent bulbs do and they use less wattage!
Don’t let cool air out, or hot air in
Seal up any cracks or openings to prevent warm air from leaking into your home, and add caulk or weatherstripping to seal air leaks around doors and windows.
Follow these energy-saving tips, and you’ll feel better about relying on your air conditioning system. For other home comfort advice or solutions, call Skaggs-Walsh or contact us online!
