Texas consistently ranks within the top five of the United States' hottest states, and when you’re living in a region as hot as this one, the last thing you want to do is make your home any hotter. While turning down your air conditioner’s thermostat may help, make sure you’re avoiding these common summertime pitfalls.
1. Leaving Your Window Coverings Open
According to the U.S. Department of Energy, 76 percent of the sunlight that comes through standard, double-pane windows becomes heat in a home. To keep that heat out, make sure you're closing your curtains and blinds in any room that gets direct sunlight, particularly in the afternoon.
2. Using Heat-Generating Appliances During the Day
If possible, avoid using appliances that give off a lot of heat during the hottest hours of the day. Rather than using your oven or stove, opt for foods that you can eat cold or that can be warmed up in the microwave. Also, refrain from using your dishwasher unless it has cold water and “no heat dry” settings.
3. Forgetting to Use Exhaust Fans
Activities like showering, bathing, and stove-top cooking add moisture to your home’s air. The more humid the air is in your home, the longer it will take your air conditioner to cool it. The solution is simple: just use your kitchen and bathroom exhaust fans while you’re bathing or cooking, and let the fan keep running for about 30 minutes after you’re finished to get rid of lingering moisture.
4. Using Incandescent Lightbulbs
Not only do traditional, incandescent lightbulbs give off a lot of heat, but they also are not nearly as energy-efficient as other types of bulbs on the market. In fact, these bulbs waste 90% of the energy they use, and all the heat you feel is that wasted energy. Instead, switch to ENERGY STAR rated LEDs, which give off less heat, use at least 75% less energy, and last approximately 25 times longer.
My House Is Still Too Warm!
Does it feel like your air conditioner is taking longer to cool your home than it did last summer? It might need some basic maintenance. If your air conditioner isn’t kept in tip-top shape, it’s going to take longer and use more energy to make your home comfortable.
Click here to learn more about the maintenance we offer at Rescue Air and Plumbing or give us a call at (972) 201-3253!