An Economic Eye

It`s Hot Outside

Savings during the hot weather around the house are focused mainly on the air conditioning costs. Like your winter and heating costs, energy prices, especially electricity, have escalated dramatically over the years. Make sure you use energy efficient air conditioning equipment to reduce costs.

For a central air conditioning system, the SEER number (seasonal energy efficiency ratio) is 13 or better (14 in warmer climates). A less efficient system will cost you more to run. A high efficiency unit may cost more, but in a hot climate, it will pay for itself in a few years by reducing electricity bills.

Window Air Conditioner

In regards to a window air conditioning unit base the size of the air conditioning unit on the size of the room, the other factors , such as how many windows it has and whether it faces north, south. An air conditioning unit that is too big for the room will work harder and cost you more. Look for an EER (energy efficiency ratio) of 11 or higher for room air conditioners. Regular maintenance on your air conditioning unit is important. Replace the filter monthly during the cooling season and have a professional service it annually.

A cooling system is one of the biggest energy guzzlers in your home (second only to your heating system, depending on where you live). With an old air conditioning system with a SEER rating of less than 8, it may be more economic to consider replacing it.

Install a programmable thermostat and you can program the temperature for when you are home . When you’re home 78 degrees should be cool. If you’re out of the house for awhile a temperature of 85 degree setting will save money.

Keep your condenser located in a cool area preferably in shade and keep plants and shrubs away from condenser .

Strategically planted trees and shrubs especially on the west and south sides to shade the house will reduce your cooling costs.

Drapes and window coverings should be used on the sunny side of your house.

Keep the sun off windows and sliding patio by Installing awnings

Ceiling Fans

Energy efficient ceiling fans can be used in in place of air conditioning on simply warm days.

Ceiling fan used in conjunction with air conditioning will allow you to keep the thermostat turned up thereby saving money. Fans do not cool a room so turn them off when you’re not going to be there

During the next painting or residing project use light colors to reflect the heat and avoid dark colors which absorbs heat Ensure that your attic is properly ventilated with unobstructed vents and perhaps an attic fan. Reflective window tint on your windows can reduce the amount of heat absorbed.

Heat generated indoors from cooking , appliances, computers, dishwashers, laundry machines etc needs to be removed by your cooling system. Consider cooking is often as possible outdoors and use microwave for heating instead of stove. Turn off computers and heat generating appliances when not in use. Lights generate heat so turn them off if not needed. Dry air setting cycle on your dishwasher would also be recommended.

Close off the rooms and cooling ducts in areas such are not in use.

It`s Hot inside

Keep furniture, drapes and any other obstructions away from conditioning vents.