Tips To Help Keep Your House Comfortably Cool In Summer
As the temperature outdoors goes up, so does the cost of cooling the home.
A range of smart energy practices can help keep utility bills in check during the summer. The following suggestions, put together by the U.S. Department of Energy and the Alliance to Save Energy, can both help residents stay cool when the heat is on and save on electric and gas bills.
tClean or replace air-conditioning filters monthly, or as needed. A well-maintained cooling system will run more efficiently, use less energy and lower energy bills. Also, keep outdoor and indoor air-conditioner coils clean. Dirt build-up on the indoor coil can have a costly, negative effect on operating efficiency.
tUse shades on east and west windows to reduce the cooling load. Close curtains during the day, and install awnings on south-facing windows. Plant shade trees or vines outside windows to help block or disperse the sun's energy.
tKeep your house closed tight in the daytime to keep unwanted heat and humidity out. If possible, ventilate at night either naturally or with fans.
tAvoid running a dehumidifier at the same time as the AC. The dehumidifier will increase the cooling load and force the air conditioner to work harder.
tPerform energy-demanding tasks, such as laundry and dish washing, during off-peak energy demand hours. Do full loads when running washers, dryers and dishwashers.
tMove lamps or television away from the air conditioner thermostat. The heat they generate will cause an air conditioner to run longer than necessary.
Wednesday, June 18, 2008
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