
With July and August being two of the hottest months of the year in Alabama, it’s definitely time to start preparing your homes for the heat. Simply keeping your home cool during the summer is a challenge on its own, but doing so while maintaining a reasonable electric bill may seem next to impossible. Here are 6 ways to save money and energy in your home, but still keep cool during those unbearable summer days.
Seal your windows.
Through the years, houses shift and move. Leaking air through small cracks can waste significant energy and allow hot air to seep in. Windows and door frames are two of the most common places that air is lost, so we suggest purchasing some high quality, clear caulking material and running it along your window and door seams. A caulking tool can help make sure you apply in a straight manner. Sealing these cracks will stop hot air from entering your home and prevent moisture problems.
Hang heavy drapes.
This is probably one of the simplest ways to save on your electric bill during the summer. Use heavy drapes in front of windows to block out the smoldering summer sun and keep your house a comfortable temperature. Be sure to keep your curtains closed during the sunniest and warmest time of the day, which is typically noon to 3:00 p.m. This will help keep the inside temperatures lower. If you still want to allow some sunlight, focus more on the west and south-facing windows. Cover windows in rooms when they are not in use, especially if they face the direct afternoon sunlight.
Install ceiling fans.
If you want another easy way to cut costs this summer, consider installing new ceiling fans to your home. Ceiling fans use much less energy than air conditioners. During the summer you want your fan to blow air straight down, so your ceiling fan needs to be set in a counterclockwise direction. This will create a cool, downward airflow.
Replace cracked windows.
Have you noticed cracked panes in your windows? Cracked windows allow hot air in and, of course, increase your home’s temperature. Replacing your cracked window panes with energy efficient and insulated windows will help keep temperatures inside your home down and balanced.
Switch your window glass.
Upgrading your window glass with high-efficiency, Low-E (low-emissivity) coatings can really impact the amount of heat coming into your home. The coating is not visible and still allows as much natural light into your home as possible. However, this coating keeps unwanted UV rays from piercing your skin, fading your carpets and harming your furniture.
Stay on top of your home maintenance.
To avoid costly replacements or repairs down the road, just stay on top of your home maintenance! Regularly check your windows for cracks or leaks- if you keep up with any minor issues, you can save money and time in the long run.
Think you need some assistance taking care of repairs or protecting your home from the heat? No worries. Call One Man & A Toolbox today at 205-823-2111 or fill out the form below