The smaller the difference between the indoor and outdoor temperatures, the lower your overall cooling bill. Here are some of our best tips for saving energy during the hot summer months.
Keep the water heater on the warm setting (120°F).
Replace furnace and heat pump filters once a month or as needed.
Open curtains on the south-facing windows during the day to allow sunlight to heat the home naturally and close them at night to reduce the chill from cold windows.
Install insulating drapes or shades on windows that feel drafty after weatherizing.
Regularly clean the flue vent of wood and pellet-burning heaters and periodically clean the inside of the appliance with a wire brush to ensure that it is heating efficiently.
Keep the fireplace damper closed unless a fire is burning. Keeping the damper open is like keeping a window wide open during the winter; it allows warm air to go right up the chimney.
Increase your thermostat a degree or two to save energy.
Avoid setting your AC colder than usual when you first turn it on.
Use the bathroom fan after you shower to get rid of heat and humidity.
Don’t put lamps or TVs near the thermostat.
Clean your air vents regularly to remove dust.
Make sure nothing blocks the air coming from the vents.
Open curtains for natural light but avoid direct sunlight.
Wash full loads of dishes and clothes to save energy.
Set your water heater to no more than 120 degrees.
Run ceiling fans counterclockwise to create a cooling breeze.
Wash clothes in cold water whenever possible.
Ensure bathroom and kitchen fans are vented to the outside (not just the attic).
For maximum energy affordability, schedule regular maintenance for your cooling equipment.
Seal cracks and openings to prevent warm air from leaking into your home.
Add caulk or weatherstripping to seal air leaks around doors and windows.
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