This spring has been a constant whirlwind with the ups and downs of weather. Lots of rain, then some high temperatures and then dipping into the low numbers at night. The spring has felt like a LONG process and it seems to be a wet and rocky start to the summer. If you are feeling crazy from the swinging temps and rain and already worried about the forecast hot summer, we have some tips on how you can stay cool and save money this summer.
Before we even share our tips, our biggest tip is to get the most savings and most comfortable home by scheduling a low-cost comprehensive energy audit today where you will learn how to make the most cost-effective heating and cooling upgrades that will keep you comfortable no matter what the weather!
1. Open the windows at night
Once the sun has gone down and temperatures have dropped past 70 degrees outside, go ahead and open windows and doors to create a cross breeze in the house. Position fans so that warm air is being pushed out of certain rooms and cool air is being blown in.
2. Close your windows during the day
Unless you have a cooling breeze during the day, keeping your windows shut can help lock in cool air from the night before. Specifically, close your west- and south-facing windows and draw the shades, pull the curtains, or lower the blinds before it has time to bake the air in your home. Keep them closed until the sun sets.
3. Turn on bathroom fans & kitchen fans
Make sure you’re using your fans and keeping moisture and warm air from staying in your home. We’d suggest taking cool showers, but if that’s not something you’re into, make sure to keep the bathroom fan on (during and after your shower) to wick away the moisture and warmth immediately.
This is not only good for keeping your home cool, but also to keep it healthy – excess moisture is your enemy inside your house.
Get an Energy Audit to make sure your Bathroom fans are working correctly!
4. Set your ceiling fans to rotate counter-clockwise
Ceiling fans have a small switch on them which directs their movement – stand beneath the fan and make sure you immediately feel a breeze from the fan. Keep it running at higher speeds to keep the air moving on hot summer days. When fall comes around, switch direction and keep it on a slower setting to help distribute heat.
5. Switch to LEDs
Did you know that as much as 90% of the electricity used by an incandescent bulb is converted to heat rather than light? Keep your home cooler during those hot summer months by switching out your light bulbs.
6. Get into the swing of summer
A few behavioral tips:
- Grill, microwave, or eat a cold dinner instead of using the oven or stovetop
- Save cooking and baking for the morning or night
- Run the dishwasher and washing machines at night
- Wash your clothes and take a shower with cold water
- Avoid the dryer machine and hang your clothes out to dry
7. Insulate
After air sealing, install insulation. Insulation will help slow the transfer of heat from the attic to the living space below. Insulation, in conjunction with air sealing, works to inhibit heat flow. Since heat moves from warmer areas to cooler areas, heat will attempt to enter your home during the summer. Insulation and air sealing reduce this from happening.
Schedule an Energy Audit to learn if your insulation is adequate (hint: if you’ve got the pink stuff, it’s probably not).
For more information:
To learn more about how weatherization can make your home cooler and more comfortable in the summer while reducing your energy bills, contact HEAT Squad today and schedule an Energy Audit.
