Summer is officially here and with it temps into the 90's the last few days. What can you do to help keep your home cool and money in your pocket?

Here are a few tips for keeping your home cool, from Bankrate.com:

  • Plant leafy trees around the exterior. The shade will keep your house from heating up in the first place.
  • Consider using what is called solar screens, which reduce the amount of heat penetrating through your windows. There are also films available that can be applied to windows. While both of these options may cost a little now, it will go towards reducing the cost of operating your air conditioner unit.
  • Use a programmable thermostat at set it at 78 while you are home, and then to a higher number at night or when you are not home.
  • Consider using a portable fan to help circulate the air inside your home. If you are also using ceiling fans, that is a bonus as they work well with air conditioners. Make sure during the summer months that the ceiling fan is running counter clockwise.
  • If you have a basement, consider watching TV or having activities that can be done in the basement with its naturally cooler temperature.
  • Check the filer in your air conditioner, this will also help to improve its efficiency and save money in the long run.

Is there something that you do that has been successful to keep your summer energy use low?

Here is a video that explains why you need to reverse the direction of your ceiling fan from summer to winter:


 

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