With the AC on blast 24/7, only able to stand outside for 10 minutes, and more unbearable heat, the southern heat is not for the weak. With that said, it’s safe to say that your electricity bill will be significantly higher to stay cool this summer. Here are some tips to stay cool while keeping
your electricity bills low.
Use your windows to keep out heat.
Using window coverings can prevent heat gain throughout the
day, prompting you to stop using air conditioning as much.
Use fan and ventilation strategies.
Fans cool people, not rooms. Make sure to turn off fans when
leaving the room not to waste ventilation and energy. When you shower or bathe,
use your bathroom fan to prevent humidity and heat in your home.
Operate your thermostat efficiently.
Set your thermostat at a comfortable temperature. The
smaller the difference between the indoor and outdoor temperatures, the lower
your overall cooling bill will be. Also, look into a programmable thermostat in
order to prevent heat and cooling loss.
Keep your cooling system efficient.
Schedule regular maintenance for your cooling appliances.
Also, avoid placing lamps, TV sets, and any other natural heat appliance near
your thermostat. The AC will sense the heat from these appliances and
automatically run longer than necessary. Finally, make sure to vacuum your air
intake vents to prevent any dust buildup.
Consider your appliance and lighting options.
Consider lighting options that operate at cooler
temperatures to prevent unnecessary heat. Also, consider using natural lighting
inside your home; however, try to avoid direct sunlight. Finally, wash full
loads of dishes and clothes to prevent water waste.
Prevent hot air from leaking into your home.
Seal cracks and openings to prevent more hot air from
getting into your home. Use caulk and weatherstripping to seal air leaks in
walls, windows, and around doors.
Lower water heating costs.
Did you know that water heating accounts for about 18% of
the energy used in your home? Set your water heater at no more than 120 degrees
Fahrenheit to prevent scalding. The lower setting of the heater also conserves
energy and saves money.
Using these tips not only conserves energy and money but
also keeps you cool during the harsh weather months. To make sure your home is
running efficiently, schedule a home energy audit! E3 Energy Solutions will
help find those problem areas to find you the best energy solutions. We provide no-cost energy services that will find your home energy loss. Give us a call today to learn more!
