11 Energy Saving Tips For The Summer
No matter what time of the year, we can all do our best to conserve energy and leave a smaller carbon footprint on our environment. This is especially true when it comes to conserving energy during hot weather. The following 11 tips will help you conserve energy and save money on your utility bills. Additional benefits include better air quality and a healthier, happier family.
Change Your Light Bulbs
Compact fluorescent bulbs are far more energy-efficient than the standard incandescent ones, and the fluorescent bulbs produce less heat.
Clean Or Replace All Air Filters
A/C filters that are dirty will cause your cooling unit to work longer and harder, eventually costing you more money.
Consider A “Cool” Roof
If your roof is in need of repair or replacement, you might want to consider installing a “green” roof. This is a roof that insulates, minimizes water runoff, and may reduce carbon dioxide.
If Your Unit Is Getting Old, Consider An Air Conditioning Replacement
The financial investment may sting initially, but in the long run, it will be worth the expense because you will save on your utility bill as well as maintenance and repair expenses.
Make Sure Your Home Is Properly Insulated And Sealed
If your windows are in poor condition, you’ll want to consider replacing them with double-pane windows. Check your wall insulation as well, and replace it where necessary.
Operate Your Major Appliances In The Evening
Dishwashers and dryers produce a lot of heat. It is best to operate these appliances when the outside temperature is cooler. Set your dishwasher to an “air dry” setting instead of using the heat dry mode. This will keep your kitchen cooler.
Plant More Trees Around The House
Trees provide shade which will keep your home cooler on the inside. Plant the shade trees on the south and west exposures of the home. This will offset the hottest angles of the sun during the day.
Set Your Thermostat To A Higher Temperature
If you’re normally comfortable at 78°, then set the temperature to 80° or even 82°. If you have ceiling fans in the house, use them. You will feel cooler with the fans moving air around then you would feel in stagnant air. You will also use less electricity than you would if using the A/C unit only.
Shade Your A/C Compressor
You would be amazed at how much better your air conditioning unit will function if the compressor is shaded. Plant bushes around it or put a covering over it to provide the shade that is needed.
Shade Your Windows During The Daytime
The light from the sun can heat up a room quickly. That’s a good thing in the winter but an energy guzzler in the summer. Consider window treatments that filter out most of the glare while allowing light to come in at the same time.
Get A Professional Air Conditioning Tune-Up In Early Spring From Your Sacramento Heating And Air Company
Keeping the A/C unit tuned-up and in optimum operating condition, will ensure a cool home with the least amount of energy use and cost.
Remember these 11 energy saving tips and make sure your air conditioning system is ready for the summer months.