Spring – things you can do before it gets hot
Clear the air
Replacing your old central air conditioner with a new ENERGY STAR qualified model can reduce your cooling costs by 20 percent.
If you have central air conditioning, keep your thermostat at 78 degrees. You can also save approximately an additional six to seven percent off your cooling costs for each degree above 78. If your air conditioner does not have a thermostat, adjust it to a lower setting, or combine using it with a window or ceiling fan to cool things down.
If possible, keep your room air conditioner out of the sun. Room air conditioners work best when kept cool. Installing one in a north-facing wall is usually ideal.
Ensure the efficiency of your air conditioner by cleaning or replacing filters monthly. Also, have your central air conditioning units professionally inspected every two years. A well-maintained appliance will last longer, operate better, and save money.
Inspect the caulking or weather stripping around windows, doors and any openings for utility services. A drafty house lets cool air escape and is much more costly to keep cool—especially on the hottest days of the season.
Be a fan
Consider installing a ceiling fan. During hot weather a ceiling fan will create a cool breeze and keep the air circulating in your home.
Get rid of hot air. Use an exhaust fan to blow hot air out of your kitchen while you’re cooking. The savings on your cooling costs far outweigh the electricity used by the fan. Also, take lukewarm showers and baths to avoid humid air, which holds more heat.
A dehumidifier can greatly add to your electric bill. Make sure you have the appropriate sized dehumidifier for your home.
Close blinds, drapes and shades during the hottest part of the day. This keeps the strong sunlight from heating your home.
Cool the kitchen
Use your microwave or countertop appliances for cooking instead of the oven or stove.
Use ENERGY STAR® labeled products. A new refrigerator with an ENERGY STAR label will save you between $35 and $70 a year compared to the models designed 15 years ago.
Instead of using your oven or stove in warm weather, which can generate more heat, fire up the outdoor grill for cooking. You can also use your microwave or other countertop appliances in place of the stove or oven.
Think ahead
Take advantage of the warmer air by drying your laundry outside, and leave dishwashing until nighttime to avoid generating extra heat in your home.
Consider the benefits of yard work. Proper selection and placement of trees, shrubs, and vines adds attractiveness and also helps lower the heating and cooling needs of a home.
