You only need minor handyman skills to take on these simple tasks – a small investment of your time can pay off in a big way once the scorching summer is upon you. Prime your home for maximum energy efficiency now and you’ll be basking in cool comfort during the hot months without worrying about a hemorrhaging bank account!
Install ceiling fans and floor fans. The pleasant, circulating air from a ceiling fan helps to push away the natural body heat that we all have, as well as cool our perspiration. Ceiling fans and portable fans are often sufficient to keep our homes cool on those temperate days when the sun isn’t blazing down so intensely. If you choose ceiling fans with lights, it’s a good idea to find models with compact fluorescent lamps (CFLs) – these conserve energy and radiate much less heat than traditional incandescent bulbs.
Regularly replace or clean air-conditioning filters. Replace dirty, disposable filters and thoroughly wash renewable ones in your central A/C system or window unit(s) – smooth flow of clean air keeps your cooling systems operating efficiently. Your home gets cooler faster, stays cooler longer, and the air you breathe is healthier.
Dehumidify! Humidity is a principal culprit in the dog days of summer. A modest, 40-pint capacity dehumidifier can reduce the workload on you’re A/C system, decreasing home cooling costs and increasing the comfort level of your home. Warm humid air is also a chief contributor to the growth of harmful molds and mildews, so less humidity in the home equals improved breathing conditions!
Shade your air conditioning system. An air conditioner is a heavy, hard-working appliance with a sheet metal exterior – it can become incredibly hot when exposed all day to the scorching sun. Planting a tree, some bushes or providing some type of shading will help decrease you’re A/C unit’s workload.
Don’t forget preventive maintenance. A qualified service professional from Del-Air will clean and lubricate your a/c system, ensure the refrigerant is properly charged and up to date with current environmental safety standards, and inspect, test and clean all working parts. A little preventive maintenance during the off season will ensure your system is tip-top and ready to go on the first searing day of summer!
Seal the deal. Inspect weather stripping and caulking throughout your home’s windows and doors, looking carefully for growing gaps and crevices that let hot air in and cold air out. Caulking and weather stripping are inexpensive and easy to install. This is a beneficial thing to do for cold weather months as well. Window-mounted air conditioners should also have the accordion seal inspected for any loose-fitting areas. Even light switches and outlet plates can be a means of intrusion for hot, humid exterior air.
Insulate your hot water pipes. Radiant heat from hot water pipes (and, depending on its location, your hot water heater) can undermine the hard work of your air conditioning system. Wrapping visible pipes with approved foam insulation is a wise investment that will benefit your home in both warm and cool weather months. Please note: If your hot water heater is gas powered, consult a professional before attempting to insulate.
