Summertime in Portland is paradise, but high energy bills during the cooling season can take some of the joy out of warm, sunny weather. This year, resolve to keep your home cool without cranking the thermostat. Here are a some low-cost and no-cost ways to stay cooler at higher thermostat settings all season long.
Maintain Your Cooling System
Annual spring maintenance on your A/C or heat pump is essential for keeping your energy bills low. Over the course of a year, your system loses some efficiency due to normal wear and tear, including loosened belts and connections, improper air flow and dust buildup. A skilled technician from a reputable HVAC company will perform a comprehensive tune-up that will result in a longer operating life for your system, lower electricity bills and a higher level of comfort.
Seal Air Leaks
Air infiltration reduces your comfort and makes your cooling system work harder to keep your home cool. Seal around windows, doors and service entrances with caulk, and use weatherstripping to seal between movable parts of windows and doors.
Use Ceiling Fans
Ceiling fans help keep you cool by moving air across your body, where it evaporates to cool your skin. Use your ceiling fans when you’re in the room, but turn them off in unoccupied rooms to save electricity.
Install a Programmable Thermostat
Programmable thermostats allow you to program your settings based on when you’re at home, asleep or working, and they can save you a considerable amount of money on your cooling costs.
Cover Your Windows
During the day, the sun’s energy heats up your rooms as it strikes your windows. Keep your shades drawn during the day to help prevent solar heat gain.
Use Appliances Wisely
Don’t cook a large meal during the hottest time of the day, and operate your other heat-generating appliances in the cool of the evening or early morning to prevent them from heating up your rooms.
For more expert advice on how you can keep your home cool this summer, please feel free to contact us in the Portland area at Roth Heating & Cooling.
