Keeping Cool This Summer

It was a tough winter here in Northeast Ohio, and heating homes and businesses was no small task. Let’s forget about keeping warm for a little while and let’s think about keeping cool and saving money.

The best way to save money on your summer cooling bill is to adjust the thermostat according to your schedule. Keep the temperature between 70 and 75 degrees when you’re home, but crank it up to 80 degrees when you aren’t. You may want to pair higher AC temperatures with using your ceiling fans which use much less energy.

The harder your air conditioner works, the more money it will cost to run. If you can, move room units to the north side of the house where it isn’t as hot. Units in the shade use 10 percent less energy than those in the sun. If you have a heat pump that can’t be relocated, consider planting some trees or shrubs nearby but don’t plant them too closely. Vegetation that is too close will also cause your system to work harder.

If your cooling system is older than 10 years old, it may be time to consider some new equipment. The experienced technicians at KW Lang will be able to find the best system for your home and your needs.

If you’ve been neglecting your attic, now is the time to start paying attention. Attics can reach up to 150 degrees in the summer. Make sure the entrance is sealed using weather stripping, sweeps, or stair tents that will keep the hot air from flowing into the main part of the house. If you’re able to make a small investment, consider an attic fan that will pull hot air out of the space, cooling it down. Many are solar powered so they don’t require any extra energy.

Believe it or not, the heat can also be your friend. Give your dryer a break and hang your laundry outside to dry. Not only does your dryer use a ton of energy, but it creates heat bringing up your home’s temperature.

Hopefully, these tips will help you feel a little more comfortable this summer. Call us today with any questions you may have about keeping your AC unit running efficiently.