Here are some tips to keep your house a little cooler this summer.
Ceiling fans- they can get the air moving in your home which doesn't really change the temperature but helps it feel cooler. Make sure your fan is turned so the air blows downward in the summer.
Box fans-at night when the outside air begins to cool, open your window and stick a box fan in the window sill. This works great to cool your house at night and helps save electricity.
Window Blinds/Shades-white window shades will reflect heat away from the house. If you don't mind spending some money there are special shades designed to help keep the heat out in the summer and in for the winter. Also remember to close the shades facing the sun in the morning.
Plants-Planting shade trees around your house will help keep your home cooler in the summer. Another useful idea for plants is to plant them around your air conditioning unit. It will use less electricity. However make sure you don't block the airflow to the ac unit.
Color-lighter color paint will reflect the heat in the summer.
Appliances-Turn off computers, monitors, televisions and lamps when they are not being used. These all produce heat. Compact fluorescent bulbs are another great way to save energy and reduce the amount of heat put out in your home. Don't put any lamps or appliances next to your thermostat. They will cause your ac to run more. Also try to hold off using major appliances until later in the day when it is cooler outside. Air dry dishes and bbq dinner instead of using the oven.
Attic-If needed upgrade the insulation from 3 inches to 12 inches. This can cut up to 10% off your cooling costs.
Fireplace-Make ure your damper is closed in the summer to keep the cool air from escaping.
Til next time.......
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