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To minimize energy waste, make
sure your windows are caulked and that doors and windows
are weather stripped to prevent cold air seeping out.
Clean the area around your outside air conditioning
unit so that leaves or deck furniture do not block it.
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Check and repaint wood doors, and oil hinges and locks
on exterior doors.
Plant shade trees and shrubs around your home. |
Mow your lawn so that grass remains between two and
three inches in height so the need for watering isn’t
as great.
Consider a sprinkler on a timer to save water. |
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Fertilize your lawn. |
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Adjust vents to help evenly cool your home. By partially
closing those on the lower level, you direct more cool
air upstairs.
Adjust your humidifier from the winter/spring setting. |
Consider installing ceiling fans to help circulate
cool air and to keep air conditioners from having to
work as hard.
Use window shades, insulated drapes or UV-cutting
window film to help keep cool air in and warm air out. |
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Clean your kitchen exhaust fan and air filter.
Clean furnace filter. |
Keep the lights off as long as possible – they generate
heat as well as light.
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Inspect the water hoses on your refrigerator, dishwasher
and clothes washer for cracks. Replace if needed. |
Use heat-producing appliances such as ovens and dryers
during the cooler hours of the day. |
A toaster oven or microwave uses half the energy of
your regular oven and doesn’t heat up the kitchen as
much. |
Let your air conditioner run while you’re away for
short periods of time. It costs more for the unit to
remove moisture from the air during that time than it
does to simply allow it to run. If you leave for an
extended period of time, shut off the air conditioning. |
