I encourage you to look below for tips that show you frugal, eco-friendly energy saving techniques to use this summer at home.
Employ passive ventilation methods in the early morning or later in the evening by opening doors, windows, skylights, vents, louvres, and other openings.
Let fresh air flow into and through your home for cooling, to remove moisture, and get rid of airborne pollutants.
Close windows and draw room darkening shades, curtains, or blinds, especially during peak hours of sunshine.
Opaque or insulated window coverings help block out the sun’s heat, makes it easier to keep your room cool, and reduces the need for fossil fuel used with air conditioning (therefore reducing utility bills).
When you turn on a ceiling fan, it creates a “wind-chill effect” that helps you feel more comfortable indoors.
Make sure to turn the fan off, before you leave the room.
For tips about how to select and install an energy efficient ceiling fan read this post.
When AC is on, for every degree you lower the
temperature, your energy consumption will increase by about six percent. So,
it’s important to find a balance between comfort and power usage.
Keep thermostat AC temperature as high as comfortable (approximately 78 degrees Fahrenheit), and use a fan to circulate the cool air. A slight reduction in energy use can maintain comfort as well as save money.
Program your thermostat to turn off, when you’re not home. There’s no need to keep your home
cooler than necessary when nobody is there to enjoy it!
While you're at it, install solar-powered outdoor lights instead of electric. They are inexpensive and a greener source of energy.
Run the dishwasher only when it's full. Use the eco-setting, if your dishwasher has one.
Operate your washing machine at times when you have a full load of clothes.
Except for the dirtiest of loads, wash clothes in cold water.
note: This post
does not discuss major home renovations including converting from electric or
gas to whole house solar power, upgrading all appliances to energy star
equipment, replacing conventional windows with triple pane windows, new
roofing, etc. Its purpose is to show inexpensive ways to save big.
This post has been shared at August Edition of The Hearth and Soul Link Party