Energy Efficiency Tips for Summer

Summer is coming and if you are looking for ways to not only help the environment, but help your electric bill, I can help! There are many things you can do to make your home more energy efficient without breaking the bank. 

Windows can be a huge source of energy loss. The seals do go bad, the weather stripping starts to peel, and then huge amounts of cold air is let out, and hot air is let in. Windows also let the sunlight in and trap it inside the house. You can go around your windows with a tube of caulk and fix any areas you can see that are letting the air pass through. The next thing you can do is add a tinting film to your windows. This will let light in without as much of the strong rays that will heat up your home. Another great option is to be aware of your blinds and curtains. Use blackout curtains to keep the most light out, but keeping the blinds closed when the sun is facing that side of your house will also help. 

Another easy way to be more energy efficient is to run your ceiling fans if you have them, especially if you have a 2nd story. This will keep the air flowing and help your HVAC by moving the warmer air towards the vent. Using self standing fans can also help if you don’t have ceiling fans. 

Turning off your lights is a huge energy saver. How many times do you leave a room thinking you will be going back in there and end up doing something else? If you turn off the lights every time you leave a room, you have nothing to worry about if you don’t go back in. Another thing you can do is change all of your lightbulbs to LED. Most LED bulbs have a very long warranty if they do happen to burn out sooner than they should. 

Laundry uses a ton of energy and water. Make sure your load is full before you run it. If you have the space, use a clothes line outside or a drying rack instead of the dryer. Most cities also have “peak usage” times for their electricity. If you find out when the off-peak times are and do your laundry during those times you will save energy and money.

I hope these tips help you save money, and help the environment! Our goal is to help you reach your goals while freeing up your time for things you really want to do. If you are interested in more information, or for a FREE Business Analysis, call us at 202-469-6774.