Cooling your home during the hottest part of the year
-Install set-back digital thermostats on your A/C system or heat pump. Every degree of set “up” for air conditioning may save up to 6% on central A/C electric usage. These devices can also “turn off” A/C when you are not home.
-Close windows and doors during the hottest parts of the day, and when outdoor conditions are humid. Humidity can build up in home furnishings and may cause your A/C to run longer.
-Close draperies and window shades on sunny warm days, especially on south and western facing windows.
-Reduce oven, stove, indoor lights, and TV use since appliances release considerable by-product heat indoors resulting from electrical use.
-Accentuate natural lighting in your home, this will reduce the need for lighting.
-Use “solar tube” skylights where spaces have no windows.
-Install ceiling fans in your most frequently occupied rooms, such as family rooms and bedrooms – fans can make 80 degrees seem like 75 degrees.
-When outdoor conditions are mild – open your windows in all rooms of the home for natural ventilation.
-Choose energy-efficient windows for replacements – look for the NFRC (National Fenestration Rating Council) rating or have and equivalent energy performance warranty from the manufacturer or builder.
-Plant drought tolerant shade trees around your home, but remember to provide good “solar” access to south-facing windows during winter.
-Select the lightest colors when painting your home or putting on a new roof.
These tips should help you save a little energy and money during these incredibly hot months In Florida!
