Cool Off Efficiently

Posted on May 7, 2008
Tag(s): Money Saving, Energy, Going Green | | Email this

With warm weather now upon us, it’s time to think about how we can cool our homes more efficiently. Here are some tips:

Plant deciduous trees around your home on the south-facing side. They will provide shade in the summer and help keep your home cool, but still allow sunlight to enter your home in the winter months.

Change those air filters! Check your HVAC filter every month and replace it if it’s dirty (Don’t go more than 3 months without changing it). A clean filter will allow the system to run efficiently and will also prevent dust and dirt from building up in the system which can lead to expensive maintenance and/or early system failure.

Tune up your heating and cooling equipment every year to maintain efficiency and comfort.

Install a programmable thermostat if you spend time away from home during the week, and you’ll save about $150 a year!

Seal and insulate ductwork in attics, crawlspaces, unheated basements, and garages. Use duct sealant (mastic) or metal-backed (foil) tape to seal the seams and connections of ducts. After sealing the ducts in those spaces, wrap the ducts in insulation to keep them from getting hot in the summer or cold in the winter.

Consider replacing old HVAC equipment with efficient Energy Star rated systems that are sized appropriately for your home.

Source: EnergyStar.gov

Digg this article

Post to reddit Hugg this article

Add to Del.icio.us

Comments

Leave a Reply

Subscribe
- Subscribe to GreenStrides
About GreenStrides

Information, news, and profiles focusing on green building and living a little lighter on the earth.
Read more...

To contact us with tips, suggestions, questions, product announcements,
or to advertise, go to our contact page.
Search GreenStrides
Blogroll
Blog directories