As the temperature rises, so can your energy bill. But staying cool doesn't have to come at the cost of your wallet—or the environment. Whether you're trying to reduce your carbon footprint, cut down on monthly expenses, or both, these energy-saving tips will help you keep your cool all summer long without overheating your budget:
Close the Gap: Before you blast the AC, make sure your home is sealed tight. Gaps around windows, doors, and vents let hot air in and cold air out. Use weather stripping or caulking to close leaks and help your cooling system work more efficiently. Don't waste that precious cool air!
Place Fans Wisely: Ceiling fans don’t lower room temperature, but they do create a wind-chill effect that helps you feel cooler. Set your ceiling fans to spin counterclockwise in the summer to push cool air down. You can also place box fans near windows at night to draw in cooler air.
Close the Blinds: As lovely as summer sunlight is, it will heat your space! Keep blinds or curtains closed during the hottest parts of the day, especially on south- and west-facing windows. Thermal or blackout curtains can add an extra layer of insulation.
Upgrade Property Insulation: Proper insulation doesn’t just help in the winter—it keeps cool air in during the summer, too. If your home is older, you might benefit from adding insulation in the attic, walls, or crawl spaces.
Avoid Heat-Omitting Appliances: Avoid using the oven or stove during peak heat hours. Opt for grilling outdoors, using a microwave, or preparing no-cook meals. Run your dishwasher and laundry machines during the cooler parts of the day, preferably at night.
Create Your Own Shade: If you own your home and have outdoor space, planting leafy trees or installing awnings can provide natural shade and lower surrounding temperatures. Not only will it reduce your cooling costs, but it’ll boost curb appeal too.
Cooling your home efficiently is all about working with nature, not against it. With a few proactive changes, you can stay comfortable and energy-conscious all summer long.
(Image via Canva)
Posted by Ken Richter on
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