Can You Bring The Heat? 6 Tips To Prep Your Home For The Summer

Summer heat can result in the highest energy costs of the calendar year. This is especially true if the home is equipped with an air conditioning system or heat pump. Here are a few tips that will aid in reducing the cost of the home’s electricity draw while maintaining the livability of the interior environment.

Servicing The Air Conditioning System

Most air conditioners require the use of exterior filters. These should be replaced every 90 days. Clogged filters result in a heavier air draw, meaning an increased work load for the system’s motor. Some of the air conditioning repair pros from San Mateo recommend installing a timer on the system’s programmable thermostat, they say it is a worthwhile investment.

 

Keeping The Attic Cool

During the summer months, the home’s attic can experience temperatures in excess of 130° Fahrenheit. The heat can cause expansion or contraction of roofing materials, resulting in leaks through which water can percolate. Installing an attic fan and attic vents is a great way to solve this issue. Just make sure to install the right amount of attic fans or attic vents for the size of your attic. You want to make the initial investment to protect the structural integrity of your roof.

 

Preventing Direct Sunlight

The home receives the highest amount of direct rays on the southern and western sides. It is recommended that window blinds or drapes on these two sides remain closed during the late morning and afternoon. A good way to cut down on direct sunlight is to install exterior awnings above these windows. Energy-efficient windows reduce the amount of UV and infrared wavelengths entering the home.

 

Reducing Heat Production

Energy-efficient light bulbs do indeed save money in the long run. They produce less heat, meaning the interior atmosphere will remain cooler. Placing lamps in corners also increases the amount of reflected light, meaning that fewer lamps are needed. Keeping the refrigerator full actually reduces the amount of time this appliance’s motor and condenser operates.

 

Eliminating Hot Spots

The small amount of electricity needed to run the bathroom fan will more than offset the amount of energy needed by the air conditioner to remove the heat produced while taking a shower. Checking the clothes dryer for clogs in the output venting is very important. Clogged or crushed vent shafts force warm air back into the interior of the home.

 

Creating Downward Air Draft

Many ceiling fans have reversible blades or reversible direction. Most will drive the airflow downwards if they are run counter-clockwise. This creates a suitable wind chill effect and will allow for a higher thermostat setting.

 

The home is a trap for warm air. Excess heat not only causes a spike in electricity usage, it also means unwanted expansion of building materials and eventual problems such as water intrusion, wood rot, and frame sagging. Following these simple tips can save home owners thousands of dollars over a 10-year period and are tips and ideas that all home owners should be following.