Let’s face it, heat zaps our energy. With warm summer days upon us, we’re all trying to minimize indoor temperatures in order to maximize performance. Other than blasting the A/C, what to do? Here are some eco-friendly tips on cooling your home (and yourself!) when oppressive outside.
Appliances & Lighting
Don’t heat your home by leaving anything on unnecessarily:
· 1. avoid “phantom power” by unplugging electronics when not in use
· 2. don’t use the oven, but instead the microwave/stove or grill outside
· 3 wash only full loads of dishes and clothes
· 4. minimize activities that use hot devices ie curling irons or hair dryers - fortunately the ‘messy’ hair look is in!
· 5. install efficient ‘colder’ lighting such as LEDs as incandescent bulbs produce mainly heat
Don’t heat your home by leaving anything on unnecessarily:
· 1. avoid “phantom power” by unplugging electronics when not in use
· 2. don’t use the oven, but instead the microwave/stove or grill outside
· 3 wash only full loads of dishes and clothes
· 4. minimize activities that use hot devices ie curling irons or hair dryers - fortunately the ‘messy’ hair look is in!
· 5. install efficient ‘colder’ lighting such as LEDs as incandescent bulbs produce mainly heat
A/C
Ok, if your air conditioner is your BFF during torrid times, five simple considerations:
· 1. a ceiling fan allows the thermostat to be raised by 4°F with no change in comfort
· 2. lower blinds to prevent the sun from warming the interior, decreasing A/C consumption
· 3 avoid placing lamps, TVs or PCs near the A/C thermostat as it senses their heat, causing the unit to run longer
· 4. use a thermostat timer; temporary and intermittent reduction of A/C has little impact on occupants and = less $
· 5. adopt natural ventilation options
Ok, if your air conditioner is your BFF during torrid times, five simple considerations:
· 1. a ceiling fan allows the thermostat to be raised by 4°F with no change in comfort
· 2. lower blinds to prevent the sun from warming the interior, decreasing A/C consumption
· 3 avoid placing lamps, TVs or PCs near the A/C thermostat as it senses their heat, causing the unit to run longer
· 4. use a thermostat timer; temporary and intermittent reduction of A/C has little impact on occupants and = less $
· 5. adopt natural ventilation options
Exterior
Make a difference outside your home too:
· 1. plant trees near the house to provide shade
· 2. a ‘green’ roof and high quality insulation help keep things cooler
· 3. seal cracks and openings to prevent warm air from entering
· 4. add caulk or weather stripping around doors and windows
· 5. undertaking these sustainability efforts makes a difference in expenditure and reduced energy consumption is good for the planet – a win win situation for sure!
Make a difference outside your home too:
· 1. plant trees near the house to provide shade
· 2. a ‘green’ roof and high quality insulation help keep things cooler
· 3. seal cracks and openings to prevent warm air from entering
· 4. add caulk or weather stripping around doors and windows
· 5. undertaking these sustainability efforts makes a difference in expenditure and reduced energy consumption is good for the planet – a win win situation for sure!
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