Summer and its soaring temperatures are here in full force, and you want to know how to keep your home or office cool and comfortable without outrageous energy bills. These 5 tips will help you reduce heat flow in your home, allowing you to set your thermostat higher and thus lower your energy bills.
1.) Change your bulbs to CFLs. CFLs use 75% less energy and last 6-10 times longer than incandescent bulbs.
2.) Put your thermostat to work when you’re away from the home or office. If possible, install a programmable thermostat that will allow you to raise temperatures when you are away. If not possible, remember to turn the a/c up when you leave your house or office. There’s no sense cooling a home or office if no one is around to enjoy the cooler temperatures!
3.) Many consumer electronics not only use up energy even when not in use but also generate heat that forces your a/c system to work harder to keep your home or office cool. Unplug consumer electronics, such as computers, video game systems, kitchen appliances and chargers, when not in use. This can save you up to 15% in energy costs!
4.) Make sure air vents are not blocked by furniture or any other items. This will allow cool air to circulate more easily, keeping your home or office cooler without forcing the system to work harder.
5.) Monitor your windows. When the day is hot and the sun is strong, cover your windows with drapes or close your blinds to keep your house cooler. When a cool day rolls in, turn off your a/c and try opening your windows for a change.