KEEPING YOUR HOME COMFORTABLE

AND SAVING ON ENERGY BILLS

It is only the start of May and it is going to be 86 degrees in the valley. I have seen pools going up in back yards and air conditioners going into the windows. Here are some great ways to help prepare your home for the coming warmer months. 

1.  Install ceiling fans in high-trafficked rooms. 

Ceiling fans operate on a wind-chill effect by pulling warm air up against the ceiling and then pushing it down against the walls to simulate a chilled breeze. For this effect to work, you’ll want to ensure your home’s fans are turning in a counter-clockwise rotation.

2. Use smart door techniques. 

When the air conditioner is on and running, every opened door and window leaks out valuable energy. Keep unnecessary trips to and from the house at a low to keep your energy bill similarly low. Look for leaks in windows and doors that could be letting the cool are out. Take advantage of opening windows and doors when it is cool at night and early morning, to help reduce how much your air conditioner runs. 

3. Clean gutters and downspouts

While you're assessing the outside of your home, check on your gutters and downspouts. Winter can be tough on them, and damage can lead to leaks that let water in your basement or crawl space or cause wood rot around the gutters. Since you are likely doing work around the yard, why not add that to the list. 

4. Update your insulation

Over the winter your insulation can get wet and damaged your insulation. Check for wet spots in the insulation or tears as that could indicate that a rodent or small animal has been in the space. You can add new insulation on top of older insulation to provide an additional barrier. This will keep cool air in your home and hot air out. Ventilate the attic. When the outside temperature is in the 90s, your attic can easily reach 140 degrees Fahrenheit. Adequately sized vents and/or an attic fan can help keep hot air from building up.

5. Seal your crawlspace

 Hot air from outside enters in through your crawlspace vents and the air compresses as it enters the cooler crawlspace. This process causes condensation and increased humidity in the crawlspace. This can lead to mold growth and musty smells in the home. Encapsulating your space creates a beautiful conditioned space 

6. Utilize your curtains and blinds

Keeping windows covered can go a long ways to keeping radiant heat out of your home. In the heat of the day keep your curtains closed and you consider investing in exterior shutters or window covers for an additional layer of heat protection.