Top Energy Efficient Tips For Summer
You do not necessarily need to spend a lot of money to keep your house cool in the summer. There are many things that homeowners can do to help reduce their energy costs. It just takes a little effort. This article discusses some top energy efficient tips for summer to get started.
Energy Efficient Lighting
Lighting costs account for 10% of the average American household’s electricity costs, says the DOE. Fortunately, you can reduce your lighting costs by as much as 80% by using energy efficient lighting solution such as LED bulbs, fluorescent lamps (CFLs) and solar lighting. Furthermore, energy efficient lighting solutions can also help lower your cooling costs and therefore your energy consumption.
Use The Grill Or Microwave
Instead of using the oven indoors, use the grill or microwave. This way, you can enjoy a delicious meal and it prevents the oven from heating up your home. Of course, anything that increases the temperature inside of your home will cause your air conditioner to work much more. This, in turn, will increase your energy costs. Instead just use the grill or microwave.
Install A Solar System
A solar system would allow you to harness solar energy and use to light your home, heat water, including your swimming pool, and power your electronic appliances. One of the main advantages of off grid solar power is it does not emit greenhouse gases that trap heat in the atmosphere. Moreover, solar energy is a renewable resource.
Windows And Window Treatments
One of the simplest and no-cost strategies you can to keep your home cool in the summer is to leave your windows open during the night, especially if you live in an area that experiences cool, breezy nights. Additionally, you should shut your windows and blinds in the morning when you wake up in order to trap the cool air indoors. By doing so, you would not necessarily need to keep your air conditioning system running constantly. In turn, this would translate to energy savings. Moreover, you can use window treatments to reduce your energy consumption.
Specifically, in the summer, window awnings can reduce the amount of solar heat passing through south-facing windows by as much as 65%, and by as much as 77% for north-facing windows. However, it is important to note that these window fixtures are generally ineffective in reducing air leakage, so you would need to apply caulk or weather stripping around your windows to seal air leaks. Additionally, you should ensure your awnings have eyelets (grommets) or other openings along the sides and tops for ventilation because awnings without ventilation tend to trap hot air around windows.
HVAC System
For starters, you should ensure your air conditioning system is in pristine condition. This means that you should get a professional HVAC technician to inspect it regularly and carry out any necessary repairs. AC tune-ups need to be schedule annually. Moreover, you should clean the registers regularly to prevent dust buildup, which could lower its efficiency. While at it, ensure airflow into the registers is unobstructed. Secondly, you should learn how to operate your air conditioning effectively in the summer. For instance, setting your thermostat 78 degrees Fahrenheit or higher when you are home will not only keep your house at a comfortable temperature, but also help you cut your energy costs by as much as 8%, says the DOE.
An ENERGY STAR certified ceiling fan would allow you to crank your thermostat up by about four degrees without noticing any significant change in temperature. Even when you turn on your air conditioning unit, you should leave your thermostat at its normal setting to slow the flow of heat into your house. Additionally, to prevent your thermostat from running longer than necessary, do not place heat-generating household electronics such as television, computer and lamps near it.
Heating System Replacement
The summer is also a great time for a heater replacement. This can save energy and effort. It saves energy because a new system is far more energy efficient that older, outdated units. Also, it saves effort because you will not have to deal with going without heat during the cold weather. Essentially, it is better to be proactive now.
Wear Light Clothing
In the summer, cotton is your best friend. Be sure to wear loose and light clothing which allows your body to “breathe”. Furthermore, the same goes for your bedding. Be sure to sleep with cotton sheets so that you don’t feel as hot as you would if you were using flannel sheets. Cotton sheets wick away moisture which helps you feel cool.
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The energy efficiency strategies discussed in this article can help you lower your energy consumption without compromising your indoor comfort. This is important in order to stay comfortable throughout the hot weather. Staying comfy in your home should not have to cost a fortune.
R.F. Ohl offers trusted heating and cooling services including air conditioner tune-ups, HVAC installations, heating oil delivery, and much more. Your cooling system is much more energy efficient when it is maintained professionally. Be sure to have a reputable heating and cooling services company, like R.F. Ohl, to address your A/C needs. Contact us today. Click here to see all of the services that R.F. Ohl can do for you.
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