Part of what makes summertime so sweet is the enlivening heat. However, when temperatures rise, so does your energy bill. Luckily, keeping cool doesn’t need to be expensive or difficult. Here are three simple steps to save energy in the summer.
1. Remember that timing is everything
If you time it correctly, you can work with mother nature to cool your home for free. For example, use windows to your advantage. Try opening them at night when it’s naturally cooler outside. You can also turn on your fans to help direct airflow. Then simply shut your windows in the morning to trap that cool air inside. It’s also a good idea to close your blinds and curtains during the day. This helps prevent warm sunlight from streaming into your home.
Next, switch up the timing of your daily chores! Use your appliances at night when it’s cooler, including your oven, dishwasher and washing machine. You can even skip the dryer and instead air dry your clothing to save energy – the same goes for your dishes!
2. Work with what you have
There are two main methods to cool your home: the air conditioning unit and fans. Both of these tools can be maximized to save on energy costs. Try to set your thermostat higher than usual. For instance, by programming it at 78 degrees in the summer, you can save up to 10% of energy costs each year. If that’s too warm for your taste, remember that every degree higher than 72 means your energy bill is even lower! Indeed, even a few degrees warmer can make a difference.
Also, don’t forget about your fans! Ceiling or box fans will create a wind-chill effect and help you feel cooler. And when you feel cooler, you can then turn up the thermostat. Here’s a tip to save even more money: When you leave a room, make sure to turn the fan off. They’re designed to keep you cool, not the room itself, so they should only be on when you’re present.
3. Consider a technology upgrade
It’s easy to forget to manually lower and raise the thermostat temperature. To save energy in the summer, consider the set-it-and-forget-it approach! A programmable thermostat can be used to keep your energy bill low. Program it to lower the temperature when you’re home and raise it back up when you’re out of the house.
However, when it comes to keeping cool, it’s not just the heat to consider, but also the humidity. A small dehumidifier can be used in your bathroom or kitchen. Besides making you more comfortable, it will protect your walls, curtains and furniture from mold and mildew.
Lastly, have a professional evaluate your air conditioning unit every year. This way, you will know it’s operating at maximum efficiency. Keep an eye on your air conditioning filters, too. A clean filter will help your appliance run smoothly.
Save energy in the summer and cool down in your own home
A cool day inside is even more enjoyable when it’s in a home you love. The experts at First Centennial Mortgage can help you through the home mortgage process. Contact one of our mortgage loan officers today to discuss your options and spend the rest of the summer in your dream home.