With scorching heat settling in across the country, we’re all looking for easy ways to stay cool. Whether you have an hour or a whole weekend, there are a number of easy projects that can help chill your home.
1. Install and Use Fans to Cool Your Home
In an air-conditioned home, ceiling fans allow you to raise the thermostat setting about 4 degrees with no reduction in comfort. It takes about an hour to install a fan, and you’ll get even more benefit from Energy Star certified ceiling fans. These fans are 60 percent more energy efficiency than standard fixtures. And remember: Fans aren’t just for the indoors. If you love outdoor entertaining, consider adding an outdoor fan.
Bonus tip: Ceiling fans cool people – not rooms – with a wind chill effect. Remember to hit the off switch when leaving a room to keep energy costs low.
2. Seal the Envelope
A properly sealed and insulated home can save up to $250 a year. Tackle a weekend project like sealing seams, cracks and openings to the outside. Protect doors from leaking air conditioning with weather stripping from M-D Building Products. For added leak protection, apply caulking or sealants from DAP around windows to keep cool air in.
3. Use a Programmable Thermostat
Smart thermostats like the Nest Learning Thermostat or Ecobee give you control of your home from any smartphone. A tap on the phone can adjust air conditioning while you’re away, and turning back the temperature 10 to 15 degrees for eight hours a day can save up to 15 percent a year on your bill.
4. Change Your Air Filters
Replacing air filters every 1-3 months is one of the fastest and easiest ways to lower energy consumption. Dirty air filters force your AC unit to work harder and waste energy. A fresh filter creates better air quality by trapping large particles, such as dust mites and pet dander, and smaller particles like bacteria and mold spores.
5. Insulate
According to the U.S. Department of Energy, 50 to 70 percent of the energy used in homes is for heating or cooling activities. By properly insulating your home, you can create a more comfortable and consistent indoor climate while significantly improving your home's energy efficiency. Find the right level of insulation, known as the R-value that works for your home.
6. Add Misters Outside
Enjoying the outdoors in the summer is made cooler with misters. There are a variety of options for every space, from an apartment balcony to a large deck for entertaining. Some options include the simple and portable bucket topper, to a free standing mister that includes a light and Bluetooth sound system.
An added benefit to these projects is saving energy and money. Interested in learning more? Try taking our energy audit to learn how you can make your home truly efficient (and potentially qualify for a tax credit). In the meantime, stay cool.
