How To Make Your Home More Energy Efficient All Summer Long

Do your energy bills rise when your air conditioner struggles to keep up with the soaring temperatures outside? Making your home more energy efficient will help you to save money and stay comfortable, even during the hottest months of the year. Here are 10 ways to lower your energy bills and keep your home cool all summer long.

1.  Invest In Energy Efficient Windows

If your home has old windows, consider replacing them. Energy efficient double- or triple-paned windows not only keep your home cooler in the summer, they can also keep it warmer in the winter by interrupting heat transfer from the outside to the inside, and vice-versa. Upgrading to a vacuum-sealed argon fill between the panes and adding a low-emissivity (low-e) coating can dramatically increase the energy efficiency of your new windows, making your home more comfortable throughout the year.

2. Get Retractable Awnings

When the hot sun blazes through large picture windows or sliding doors it creates a "greenhouse" effect, trapping the heat inside your home. A retractable awning offers shade and shields your home from the glare of the sun so your air conditioning will not have to work so hard. When a retractable awning is not needed, it can be easily tucked out of sight with the push of a button or the turn of a handle. 

3. Draw The Drapes And Lower The Blinds

When the temperature soars outside, keep your drapes and blinds closed to prevent the sun from entering your home. Invest in thermal blinds or curtains with heavy lining that will block out more of the harsh rays than those made of thin fabric.

4. Maintain Your HVAC System

Keeping your HVAC system functioning well is crucial. Schedule annual maintenance so a service professional can catch any problems before they arise, which can help you avoid costly repairs. Remember to replace dirty air filters with clean ones every 3 months to improve the air quality in your home and save on energy usage.

5. Install A Programmable Thermostat

A programmable thermostat can save you a considerable amount on your energy bills. During the summer, program it to automatically raise the temperature at predetermined times when you are away at work, and lower them when you are at home for maximum cost savings.

6. Beef Up Your Insulation And Seal Leaks

Proper insulation is key to ensuring that your home is comfortable all year long. The right types of insulation in the right places will also make your home more energy efficient, and that can save you money on your energy bills. Sealing your home's envelope - the outer walls, windows, doors, and other openings - coupled with adequate interior insulation, will help to ensure that your home stays cool in the summer and warm in the winter.

An Overview Of The Various Types Of Insulation For Your Home

7. Put In An Attic Ventilation Fan

As the summer sun blasts down on your roof, your attic absorbs the heat which then radiates down into your home, making you turn up your AC. Installing a ventilation fan can reduce the amount of heat in your attic by pushing out the stifling hot air and drawing in the cooler air from the outside. This prevents hot air from seeping into your home and driving up the temperature in the living space. Your air conditioner won't have to work as hard to cool your home, and that will save you money.

8. Add Ceiling Fans

Ceiling fans can make a big difference in the comfort of your home and may lower your energy bills. During the summer months, your ceiling fans should rotate in a counterclockwise direction to create a downdraft. This action circulates a cooling breeze in a room so you don't have to lower the temperature on your thermostat. Change the direction of the fans to to clockwise during the winter so the warm air will circulate upwards. 

9. Use Your Oven Less, Grill More

Turning up the heat in your oven will turn up the temperature in your kitchen. Instead, try using your outdoor grill more often during the summer months to cook meals so your air conditioner does not have to work overtime.

10. Upgrade Your Light Bulbs

It's time to switch out your old incandescent light bulbs to newer LED versions. Why? LED bulbs use at least 75% less energy, last up to 25 times longer, and produce roughly 75% less heat than incandescent lighting, according to the energy.gov website. This small change can mean big savings for you on your energy bills.

At Meridian Homes, we specialize in luxury remodeling and custom home building in the Washington, DC area. Our mission is to create exceptional residences that exceed expectations. Our highly personalized design process and careful management of every project have earned us a reputation over many years for outstanding client service and solid, beautiful craftsmanship. Contact us today to begin your custom home or remodeling project.