We’re all trying to live greener lives, but nothing zaps your energy or your will to live greener in your Portland home like summer heat.
The summer heat can also assault your wallet. In fact, you can easily watch your utility bill double during the summer months.
Fortunately, there are some steps you can take to cool your Portland home for less money and less impact on the environment this summer. Here’s how.
- Prep your home. Turn off heat-generating lights and appliances. Don’t use your oven. In the afternoon, close your windows and outside doors and keep window coverings drawn. At other times, use fans to create a cross breeze.
- Raise your thermostat. When you’re not home, raise the thermostat to 80 degrees. Lower it two or three degrees when you are home and use ceiling fans to keep rooms cool. Moving your thermostat from 75 to 80 will lower your consumption by 15%. Your Portland home will still feel comfortable, and you will notice significant savings on your next utility bill.
- Take a look at your windows. You’d be surprised to find out how much heat enters your home from old, single pane windows. Newer energy efficient windows with double panes block more heat and keep more cool air inside. If you can’t afford new windows now, at least cover the ones you have with heavy curtains or shades to keep out heat.
- Check for leaks. Leaky duct work and poorly sealed doors can let as much cool air out of your home as an open window. Walk around your home checking under your doors and around your windows to feel for escaping air. Hire a professional to check your air conditioning systems for you. Take the time to have duct leaks repaired and seal air leaks.
- Dress appropriately. There’s no reason to keep your home so cold that you have to wear extra layers of clothing when you’re inside. Wear light, loose fitting clothing. You’ll be more comfortable in slightly warmer temperatures. Keep light throw blankets handy for anyone who easily gets cold under a ceiling fan.
Implementing even one or two of these tips in your home can save you money and help the environment.
Want to buy an energy efficient home? Or do you want more tips regarding your Portland home? Either way, check out the Portland Real Estate Blog.