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An Efficient Summer
It’s summer and the temperatures are warming up, so are the costs associated with keeping cool. With the rising cost of living, staying cool can be stressful due to constantly running air conditioners causing hydro bills to spike, along with extra expenses of summer. Yet, there are ways to cut costs and have an efficient and cool summer. Try implementing efficient practices to stay cool to keep some extra money in your pocket.
Regularly maintain your cooling system. If your air conditioning unit or system isn’t running properly, you may end up paying more to keep your home cool. Change air filters every 3-6 months and have ducts cleaned every 3-5 years. Some factors may require these things to be done more frequently, such as: if you have recently renovated, have pets in the home or live in an area with air quality advisories.
Minimize heat from appliances. Using the stove, no matter the season, causes a substantial amount of heat to be produced within the home. By cooking on a barbeque or grill outside, you can avoid creating excess heat indoors. Small appliances like microwaves, air fryers, and slow cookers are good options that do not produce nearly as much heat when cooking inside. Additionally, these alternatives typically cost less to use and run. Similarly with the dryer. Hang clean laundry to dry outdoors or run the dryer during cooler times of the day, like once the sun goes down.
Use a programable thermostat. Programmable thermostats allow you to turn down the temperature in your home automatically at desired times. If you’re away from home during the day for work, program the thermostat so that the air conditioning runs less frequently, while you’re gone. This is also a great way to reduce your hydro costs when you go away for the weekend.
Use fans. Portable and ceiling fans create a breeze and circulate air which will help you feel cooler. They use less energy than an air conditioning system, making a great alternative to running AC during evenings and cooler times of the day.
Keep blinds and curtains closed. Making your home darker by keeping the blinds and curtains closed makes for a cooler home. By blocking sunlight from coming into your home, you are also stopping extra heat as well. Blackout curtains and shades are best for maximum light blocking.
Make the switch to LED lightbulbs. Keeping your home dark by closing windows and blinds is a great way to stay cool but we still need to see! Light bulbs can produce a lot of heat and if you have minimal daylight in your home, you’ll keep more lights on. Make the switch to LED lightbulbs. They do not get hot when they’re turned on, they last longer and use less hydro than traditional bulbs – which saves you money!
Keep your cold air inside. Check doors and windows for sealing issues. Cooling systems have to work harder and run for longer if the cold air being produced is escaping through poorly sealed doors and windows. Inspect weather stripping and exterior caulking. Look, listen and repair any drafts to optimize your home’s air conditioning and control your costs.