Tips for Beating the Summer Heat

Summer is on its way, and with it comes the probability of a few uncomfortably hot days and nights.  Follow these tips to keep cool and comfortable while keeping your home energy costs to a minimum:

Basic Strategies for Keeping Cool:

• Close blinds and drapes or cover windows during daylight hours to keep the sun off the glass.
• Keep your house closed during the day to keep the heat out, and ventilate it well at night to let cool air in.
• Turn off the lights in unoccupied rooms.  Turn off or unplug unnecessary electronics.
• Dress for the weather. Wear lightweight, loose fitting clothing on hot days to help keep cool.
• Drink plenty of cold liquids to stay hydrated.

Habits that Save Energy:

• Skip the dishwasher's drying cycle.  Open the dishwasher to let items air dry instead.
• Dry laundry on a clothesline.
• Set your A/C thermostat to 78 degrees.
• Cook more meals in your microwave. Microwave cooking is quicker, more energy efficient and heats the food instead of your house.
• Use a fan with your room air conditioner to help move the cool air throughout the house.

Investments That Are Worth It

• Shade your air conditioner, and make sure it has good airflow on all sides.
• A well-insulated house is easier to keep cool.  If your house is poorly insulated, adding insulation will keep you warmer in winter, cooler in summer and lower your heating bills.
• Good attic ventilation keeps your house cooler.  Keep attic vents clear and attic fans functioning properly.
• Install awning sor plant deciduous trees or vines to shade south and east windows.
• For the most energy-efficient home heating and cooling, install a heat pump system.

Central Air Conditioning:

• If you’re building a new home or considering changes to your central heating and cooling system, consider installing a heat pump.  Heat pumps are the most cost-effective way you can heat and cool your home.
• Have a qualified contractor inspect and service your system to ensure it is operating efficiently.
• Check your filters monthly & clean or replace them as needed.
• Keep vents open & unobstructed.
• Have your duct system tested for leaks and repaired if necessary.

Window Air Conditioning:

• If you have zonal electric heat such as baseboards, wall heaters or ceiling cables, consider upgrading to a ductless heating and cooling system.  These units provide winter heat at a fraction of the cost of electric resistance heat, and provide summer air conditioning without the need for a window unit.
• If you use a window unit, make sure it's properly sized.  Too small won’t cool effectively; too large will use too much energy. 
• Buy an ENERGY STAR qualified model.
• Use a fan with your air conditioner to help spread the cool air throughout the house.

For more information:

For more energy saving tips, contact our Energy Experts at (503) 366-5470 or experts@crpud.org.