How To Prep Your Home For A Hot Summer
Below are five home preparation tips to help you keep your home cool without increasing your energy bill.
17/05/2022
With the summer season around the corner, you're probably trying to trace your sunscreen and can't wait to spend some quality time outdoors, but before you head to the beach, make sure your home is ready for the hot summer. Setting up the furnace and draught-proofing your doors and windows are often part of the winterizing process for homes. In the same way, there're a few measures you should be implementing in preparation for the summer heat. This will keep your home cool during the summer while also preparing you for the dirt and allergens that come with the season.
Fortunately, cooling isn't the only worry during the summer; with the temptation to keep the air conditioning (AC) on, bear in mind that your power bill is also rising rapidly; however, there're ways to cut your electricity bills, save energy, and relieve some of the financial strain. Here are four home preparation tips to help you keep your home cool without increasing your energy bill.
1. Is Your HVAC Equipped To Keep Your Home Cool?
The winter season was warm, so you had a great time owing to the warmth generated by your heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system; however, is your HVAC system working to keep you cool throughout the hot summer months? There're several things you could be doing to guarantee that your air conditioner can keep things cool. First and foremost, replace the filter. A jammed or dusty filter will keep your HVAC system running longer, costing you a lot of money. Connect the air conditioner and confirm it's working. Examine the circuit breakers if cold air isn't flowing. You can call on HVAC professionals or companies that specialize in aircon systems to check things out.
2. Insulating Your Attic Will Contribute To Reducing Temperatures
The most obvious solution for keeping your home cool in the summer is air conditioning. However, improving your home's insulation is another way to prepare for the hot summer months. Your attic is one section of your home that has to be insulated; if it isn't, heat from the attic can raise temperatures throughout your home, affecting the entire home. Another benefit of insulating your attic is that you'll be able to say goodbye to your 'friends' living rent-free in it. During the chilly winter months, animals strive to locate a haven, and attics are the greatest option. If you find animals in your attic, call an expert for their safe and compassionate evacuation.
3. Consider Fixing Blockout Or Sunscreen Roller Blinds
Giving your windows some TLC for A1 energy efficiency and sun protection is the wisest decision. Whether you have curtains or blinds in your home, it's better to close them during the day when it's very hot outside or when the rooms are empty to keep your home cool. Blockout blinds with thermal layers provide an effective barrier from the sun's intense rays and heat, while curtains and blinds operate as a shield against sunlight and save on power bills.
On the other hand, sunscreen roller blinds provide the finest protection against ultraviolet (UV) waves. Because they're composed of a synthetic UV shielding mesh medium, you'll still be able to enjoy views from your window when you use sunscreen roller blinds. They may also be used in conjunction with curtains to give shade all day while providing privacy at night.
4. Do A DIY Cleaning On Your Refrigerator
Refrigerators consume a lot of energy, particularly if they aren't performing optimally. Clean your unit and wipe the condensing coils to get the best performance of your refrigerator.
5. Ensure Your Thermostat Is Functioning
It’ll be frustrating to discover that your thermostat isn't functioning when the first heat wave strikes, considering the high demand for HVAC experts throughout the summer months. Set your thermostat to air cooling mode and five-degree to make your home’s current temperature cooler. After a few minutes, your unit should turn on, and cold air should start flowing through the air vents. Something is wrong if cold air isn't flowing or is blocked. Now's the time to switch to a smart thermostat.
A smart thermostat or programmable will ensure that everything is functioning efficiently (provided there're no venting problems), but it’ll also help you save more than 10% on your summer cooling expenses.
Final Thoughts
Summer brings beautiful moments spent with family and friends, but you must be prepared for its arrival. Summer preparations should begin weeks in advance, and there're several ways you can do to guarantee your home can withstand everything the summer season throws at it. Make sure your home is set for the hot summer months!