Stay Cool / Save Energy This Summer

Posted by: Sound Marketing for House Smart Home Improvements

 Now that the temperature's rising, it's time to get your home ready to enjoy in warm weather! 

 

 But before you crank up the air conditioning and turn on the sprinklers, make sure you've inspected the house - giving things a tune-up can help you save on energy costs and avoid expensive repairs. Here are a few tips that will help you summer-ize your home!

 
1. Tune up your air conditioner

Get a professional tune-up on your air conditioning unit(s) at least once a year. The last thing you want is for your A/C to go out when high temps hit. A professional can check for damage or leaks and make sure your equipment is running as efficiently as possible. 






2. Clean and adjust fans
 
Clean your ceiling and portable fans for maximum efficiency and minimum dust. Turn off your fans when they're not in use and when you leave the house.







3. Check air filters

Make sure clean filters are installed in your heating or cooling systems. Washable home furnace/HVAC system filers can be cleaned and reused. They only require replacement every few years, saving you money in the long run. Don't skimp on the quality, though, and follow the directions for proper cleaning and drying. 






4. Rethink your appliance use
 
Skip the oven, which can create heat in your home and make it more difficult to cool down. Instead, start using the BBQ more often. Running appliances, like your dishwasher and washer/dryer, at night will save energy and money. The humidity created from the dishwasher can compete with the cooling effects of A/C, and energy prices may be slightly lower on off-peak hours, such as bedtime.






5. Create shade
 
Replace heavy curtains with a lighter material. Consider window tinting or plantings that can create more shade in areas that get the most sun. 

 







6. Clean windows
 

Keep the cool air in and the hot air out! Clean windows inside and out and check for any damage to glass. Rinse window screens and check for damage. Replace weather stripping if necessary. 

 








7. Adjust your thermostat
 

Install a programmable thermostat, if you don't already have one. Benefits: increased comfort, more control, big savings! By ensuring that your cooling system isn't running all day or night, a programmable thermostat can help lower energy costs. 





 House Smart Home Improvements are experienced professionals with an  A+ Rating with the Better Business Bureau. When it’s time to replace your windows, doors or  furnaces and heat pumps, or to install  insulation, and other energy-efficient home upgrades,  Give us a call. 604-585-2020. Right now, save 100 per window for a limited time if you live in the lower mainland, BC Canada