5 Simple Tips to Reduce Cooling Costs this Summer

Keeping your home cool during the warm months can take a toll on your finances. Cooling costs can account for more than half of your power bill. Here are five recommendations from WIN Home Inspection to help you reduce expenses and stay cool:

1. Use Fans Whenever Possible

Using portable or ceiling fans can make a huge difference in keeping your house cool. They also require less energy and electricity than an air conditioning unit. Be sure to shut them off when no one is in the room.

2. Open Your Windows at Night

Outside temperatures often drop at night during the summer – sometimes as much as 30 degrees. Open your windows instead of running your AC unit at night. The cross ventilation caused by opening two or more windows in a room will circulate the air while also giving the warm air in your house a chance to escape.

3. Adjust Your Thermostat

Many homeowners don’t think to adjust their thermostat in hot weather but just a few degrees can make a difference. One study found each degree a thermostat is set above 75 degrees could save 10 to 15 percent in energy. Experts recommend setting the temperature around 78 degrees on hot days and 82 to 85 degrees when you’re outside your home. Your AC runs most efficiently at these temperatures for long periods of time.

4. Close Your Blinds

Shutting your blinds during the day is another easy way you can keep your house cooler without overworking the AC system. Warm sunlight will quickly heat up your house, especially if you have more windows. Closed blinds will keep out sunlight and insulate your windows retaining cold air inside your home.

5. Grill Out

Cooking inside can raise your home’s overall temperature. Weather permitting, grill or cook outside instead of using your oven, stove or other appliances that emit heat.

Homeowners spend $11 billion every year to power their air conditioners. These five tips can add up and help you save on your electric bill.

For more tips on how to make sure your home is in tip-top shape this summer, click here.

To find a local, knowledgeable inspector near you, visit www.wini.com.