Joseph C. Justice Jr./istockphoto
READ MORE ABOUT:
The summer is here, and you might be looking for ways to stay cool while being kind to the planet. Heating and cooling comprise 56% of our energy bills. That comes to about $2,200 dollars a year. That's a lot of money and a lot of energy.
Is there anyone who can help us conserve energy, fight global warming and in the process put some of that HVAC money back in our pockets? The EPA is that anyone. Last month, they released their list of summer cooling tips to help us sensibly save energy in the summertime.
From EPA:
| A few simple changes will help create real reductions in high summer electric bills and provide a hefty cut in greenhouse gas emissions in the bargain," said EPA Administrator Lisa P. Jackson. "It's important that we all do our part to confront climate change, especially when it can help save money during these challenging economic times." |
The EPA's Summer Cooling Tips
- If you don't have a programmable thermostat, buy one. The savings tally to nearly $200.00 a year. This way, when you are out of the house, on vacation or sleeping, you can set your 'stat to "Save."
- Search your house for leaky ducts. The majority of homes lose about 20% of their cooling energy through leaky ducts.
- Seal off any ducts to unconditioned areas, and insulate rooms like the garage, attic or cellar. (Families with larger homes and empty nesters consider not cooling the wing of the house no one ever goes into.)
- It may be time for an AC upgrade. Get a qualified professional to inspect your system. Look for models that have the EPA's Energy Star and replace filters at least every three months.
- Replace those old-fashioned, roundy light bulbs. The Energy Star fluorescent light bulbs use two-thirds less energy and generates less heat than those dinosaur incandescent bulbs.
- Turn off all appliances and lights when not in use. Coffee makers and toaster ovens don't need to be plugged in all day.
- Make sure your fan is spinning clockwise. This will create a wind-chill effect. Turn your ceiling fan off when you exit the room. Fans cool people not rooms.
Bonus: This summer, wear skimpier clothing, keep yourself hydrated and take cooler showers. Plant shade trees around your house and learn how to best ventilate your house.
More on Cooling
Quiz: Are You a Green Appliance Guru?
Set Your Ceiling Fan For Energy Savings
6 Easy Ways to Keep Your Computer Cool Without Using Electricity
How to Cook Smart to Keep Cool
-
- {}
