Summer is officially upon us and that can only mean one thing so is the heat. Here are some tips to keep your home cool and your electricity bill low.
Stock-up on summer essentials:
Buy fans before they go out of stock.
Buy low watt light bulbs or LED for lambs so you don’t add more heat into your home.
If your home doesn’t have central air, think about investing in a portable air conditioner like this one from Amazon. Avoid window mounted units because they can be dangerous and are not allowed in most rentals (check with your Property Manager).
Purchase a surge protector or power strip to make sure those extra fans or air conditioner doesn’t overwhelm your home’s electrical system.
Moderate the use of air conditioning:
Set the temperature on your thermostat to 78 degrees and turn it off when you are not home to save electricity.
By using fans with air conditioning you can lower the temperatures in your home by up to 4 degrees. This is a great way to make sure keep your home cool.
Avoid setting your thermostat at colder temperatures than normal when you turn on the air, it will not help cool your home any faster.
Stay cool without central air:
Create a cross breeze by positioning fan across from windows so that the wind from the outside can combine.
Avoid using appliances during the day, run the dishwasher at night and only use the oven when necessary.
Keep cool at night with cotton sheets that breath better than synthetic fibers.
Keep your windows open at night to let in cool air and close them during the day to trap the cool air in.
Keep blinds facing east and west closed to stop heat from entering your home through direct sunlight.
Additions tips:
Mold loves warm temperatures, make sure you ventilate kitchen and bathrooms. Keep bathroom and shower enclosures open.
Food spoils faster in warm weather and can attract bugs. Avoid pest issues and save your food by sealing food tightly and keeping fruit and vegetables in the refrigerator.
Remember to turn off lights and fan when you leave a room to save electricity.