Springing into Summer- Warm Weather Energy Saving Tips

The warm air has arrived and most of us are cranking up the air!  The warmer weather can bring higher energy usage trying to beat the heat.  With the kids home for the summer and on the electronics and the beach towels adding to the laundry, The Wire is providing you with some Warm Weather Energy Savings Tips!  (energy.gov)

1. Service your air conditioner. Easymaintenance such as routinely replacing or cleaning air filters can lower yourcooling system’s energy consumption by up to 15 percent. Also, the first day ofspring could serve as a reminder to check your air conditioner’s evaporatorcoil, which should be cleaned annually to ensure the system is performing atoptimal levels.

2. Open windows. Opening windows creates across-wise breeze, allowing you to naturally cool your home without switchingon air conditioners. This is an ideal tactic in spring when temperatures aremild.

3. Use ceiling fans. Cooling your home withceiling fans will allow you to raise your thermostat four degrees. This canhelp lower your electricity bills without sacrificing overall comfort.

4. Cook outside. On warmer spring days, keep theheat out of your home by using an outdoor grill instead of indoor ovens.

5. Install window treatments. Energy efficient window treatments or coverings such as blinds, shades and films can slash heat gain when temperatures rise. These devices not only improve the look of your home but also reduce energy costs.

6. Caulk air leaks. Using low-cost caulk to sealcracks and openings in your home keeps warm air out -- and cash in your wallet.

7.  Bring in sunlight. During daylight hours, switch off artificial lights and use windows and skylights to brighten your home.

8. Set the thermostat. On warm days, setting aprogrammable thermostat to a higher setting when you are not at home can helpreduce your energy costs by approximately 10 percent.

9. Seal ducts. Air loss through ducts canlead to high electricity costs, accounting for nearly 30 percent of a coolingsystem’s energy consumption. Sealing and insulating ducts can go a long waytoward lowering your electricity bills.

10.  Switch on bathroom fans. Bathroom fans suck out heat and humidity from your home, improving comfort.