- During the summer, adjust the temperature
1°-2° per week to a higher setting, allowing
your body to adjust to the new temperature.
Raising the temperature just a couple of
degrees can cut your cooling costs by as
much as 5%. Start by setting your air
conditioner thermostat to 78°F or higher –
health permitting - when you’re at home.
- Don’t set your thermostat at a colder setting
than normal when you turn on your air
conditioner. It will not cool your home any
faster and could result in excessive cooling
and, therefore, unnecessary expense.
- Use drapes, shutters, awnings, shade trees,
glass with reflective film, or solar screens to
keep sunlight out in the summer.
- Plant deciduous shade trees on the west
side of your home. Be sure to shade your
air conditioning unit with trees or shrubs, but
do not block the airflow. A unit operating in
the shade uses as much as 10% less
electricity than the same one operating in
the sun.
- During the hot months, keep window
coverings closed on the south, east, and
west windows.
- Keep in mind that insulation and sealing air
leaks will help your home’s energy
performance in the summertime by keeping
the cool air inside. Seal leaks around doors,
windows, and other openings, such as
pipes or ducts, with caulking or weather-
stripping. Plug gaps around pipes, fans, and
vents that go through exterior walls,
ceilings, and floors from heated to unheated
spaces.
- Keep cooling supply and return registers
clean and unobstructed by furniture or
draperies.
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