Keep Cooling Costs Low This Summer

According to Wisconsin Public Service (WPS), “Cooling accounts for roughly 17% of your home’s annual energy bill.” However, if this short, mild, and balmy winter is any indication, the upcoming summer could be a real scorcher—and cooling costs could easily be higher than they would be in an average year. It’s important to consider energy-saving tips and how to save electricity at home. Luckily, the steps you take now can save you money down the road.

Here are five steps you can take to keep cooling costs low this summer.

1. Have your HVAC (heating, ventilation, air conditioning) system serviced.

An annual (or biannual) HVAC maintenance appointment will ensure everything is running smoothly and efficiently, which will save you money in the long run. And since spring is the off-season, it’s a great time of year to schedule one.

2. Check the seals around doors and windows.

It’s like dads always say: “Shut the door! We’re not cooling the whole neighborhood!” If it’s shut, you’ll save money by ensuring that there are no air leaks coming in or going out. If you find a leak, you can properly seal it with weatherstripping.

3. Minimize indoor heat generation.

Know which appliances produce the most heat and try to avoid using them during the hottest parts of the day. Instead of a pizza in the oven, how about a summer salad and sandwiches? Instead of using the dryer, how about hanging the clothes on the line? On that note, turn off lights and unplug chargers and appliances that aren’t being used.

4. Adjust your ceiling fan to spin counterclockwise.

This creates a downdraft and keeps cool air circulating. A ceiling fan used with an air conditioner can make a room feel four degrees cooler than the temperature setting. It’s a good way to use less A/C and save money. (Fun fact: In the winter, the blades should spin clockwise to create an updraft to move the warm air trapped near the ceiling and disperse it back into the room.)

5. Decorate with light colors.

Painting the house this summer? Buying new drapes? Opt for lighter colors, shades, and hues that reflect heat. You don’t need to contend with heat that doesn’t make it into the house in the first place.

Check out our blog for additional Home Life tips.