Energy Efficient Tips to Beat the Heat
In Pearland, TX, the summer heat can be oppressive. It’s important to stay cool and comfortable, but you don’t want to waste energy in the process. Here are some tips to help you stay cool without breaking the bank and information about why energy efficiency is important.
The Benefits of Being Energy-Efficient
Energy efficiency can help you save money on your energy bill. In fact, investing in energy efficient appliances and practices can help reduce your carbon footprint while improving the comfort of your home. Implementing energy efficient practices can set a good example for others to follow. Here are some tips for how you can beat the Texas heat this summer with some tried-and-true energy efficient methods.
Use Fans Wisely
Ceiling fans and portable fans can help circulate air and make your home feel cooler, but they won’t actually lower the temperature. That means you should turn them off when you leave the room – otherwise you’re just wasting energy.
Take Advantage of Natural Ventilation
When it’s not too hot outside, open up the windows and doors to let in a breeze. This will help keep your home cooler without using any energy at all.
Use Window Coverings Wisely
During the day, keep the blinds or curtains closed to prevent heat from coming in through the windows. At night, open them up to let the cooler air in.
Use Your Oven and Stove Sparingly
Cooking can make your home feel hotter, so try to use the microwave or cook outdoors when possible.
Don’t Waste Energy on Cooling Empty Rooms
It’s a waste of energy to cool rooms that are empty. If you’re not using a room, close the vents or turn off the AC completely. This will help you save money on your energy bill and keep your home more comfortable.
If you have rooms that are rarely used, like guest bedrooms or storage rooms, consider closing off the vents altogether. This will prevent cool air from entering the room and will make it easier to maintain a comfortable temperature in the rest of your home.
Set Your Thermostat Wisely
As the weather warms up, it’s tempting to crank up the AC and enjoy the cool indoor air. However, setting your thermostat too low can waste energy and money. The Department of Energy recommends setting your thermostat to 78 degrees when your home and 85 degrees when you’re away.
If you have trouble sticking to these settings, try a programmable thermostat. You can set it to automatically adjust the temperature when you’re away or asleep, so you don’t have to worry about it.
Use a Programmable Thermostat
A programmable thermostat can help you automatically adjust your home’s temperature so that you’re not wasting energy when it’s not necessary.
Consider a Whole-House Fan
If you live in Texas, you know that summer can be hot and humid. A whole-house fan can help cool your home by exhausting hot air and drawing in cooler air from outside.
Whole-house fans are most effective when used in conjunction with ceiling fans to create a cross-breeze. They can be used to supplement your air conditioner, or as an energy-saving alternative to air conditioning.
Don’t Block Vents
Make sure that your furniture isn’t blocking any vents – this will reduce the efficiency of your cooling system and waste energy.
Have Your Cooling System Serviced Regularly
A well-maintained cooling system will run more efficiently and use less energy than one that isn’t properly cared for.
By following these tips, you can stay cool all summer long without wasting energy – and money. If you’re looking for an energy efficient home, Larkspur at Shadow Creek is the perfect place for you. Our senior living apartments are built with high performance materials and construction methods that reduce energy consumption and help you save money on your utility bills. Contact us today to learn more!