Keeping your home cool and comfortable during the scorching summer months is expensive. With temps soaring and humidity levels through the roof, you’re probably looking for ways to keep your home cooler without using so much electricity. But don’t sweat it! Here are some of our expert tips to help you beat the heat and keep your home cool while minimizing your costs.
Optimize Your Air Conditioning System
Regular Maintenance
Your air conditioner needs to be in good condition to run efficiently. To keep it working well, you need to schedule annual tune-ups/service. Our experienced team at Climate Design can help with this — we’ve been serving Central Florida for over 40 years, so you know you’re in good hands!
During tune-ups, our techs clean coils, check refrigerant levels, and make sure everything’s running perfectly. This not only improves efficiency but can also add years to your system’s life.
Change Your AC Filters
We recommend changing your AC filters monthly to make your AC use less energy. Trust us —, your system will thank you! Clean filters mean better airflow and cooler air throughout your home. It’s like giving your AC a breath of fresh air!
Got pets or allergies? You might want to change those filters even more often. High-quality filters can trap more of those pesky particles, making your indoor air cleaner and fresher.
Harness the Power of Fans
Ceiling Fans Are Your Friends
Don’t underestimate the humble ceiling fan! When used alongside your AC, these spinning wonders can make a room feel up to 4 degrees cooler. Here’s a pro tip: switch your fan’s direction to counterclockwise in summer for the best cooling effect.
The best part? By creating a refreshing wind-chill effect, ceiling fans let you bump up your thermostat about 4 degrees without sacrificing comfort. That could lead to some serious savings on your energy bill!
Portable Fans for Targeted Cooling
Try placing a fan across from a window to push out hot air and welcome in cooler breezes to make rooms in your home cooler. Alternatively, you can point portable fans directly towards you while you sit at a desk and work or relax on the couch and watch TV.
Be Smart About Your Windows
Utilize Shade to Your Advantage
We recommend keeping your curtains or blinds closed during the hottest parts of the day, especially on south- and west-facing windows (i.e., facing the sun). This easy step can reduce heat gain by up to 33% and take a ton of pressure off your AC system.
For an extra protection, you can even install external shading options like awnings or trellises. These can block out the hot sun before it reaches your windows.
Consider Heat-Blocking Window Treatments
Heat-blocking window films and thermal curtains are another good option to block out hot UV rays — further reducing the amount of heat sneaking into your home through windows.
Reflective window films can block up to 70% of solar heat while still letting natural light in— a win-win for your comfort and your energy bill!
Mind Your Appliances
Cook Smart
Using your oven on a scorching day can quickly make your kitchen feel like a sauna. Instead, you can use an outdoor grill to cook and keep your home cooler. Your taste buds and your AC will thank you!
When you do need to cook indoors, try using smaller appliances like slow cookers or microwaves if you can. They release a lot less heat into your home.
Time Your Chores Wisely
Be strategic with your chores — we recommend running heat-generating appliances like dishwashers and dryers during cooler evening hours. That way you’re not adding more heat to your home while the sun’s beating down on it.
Another tip is air-drying clothes if you can — this save energy and keeps all that heat and humidity out of your home — nothing beats that fresh, sun-dried smell!
Improve Your Home’s Insulation
Good insulation is your secret weapon against the summer heat — it keeps the cool air in and hot air out. If you’re not sure about your home’s insulation, have a professional assess it. At Climate Design, we offer re-insulation services that can make a world of difference in your home’s energy efficiency.
Create a Cool Oasis
Indoor Plants for Natural Cooling
Time to channel your inner green thumb! Plants, like aloe vera and snake plants, can naturally cool your home and improve its air quality — plus, they also happen to look great!
Place these leafy friends near sunny windows to provide natural shade and cooling. Just remember to give them plenty of water – they’ll be working overtime in the summer heat!
Cool Color Schemes
Did you know the colors in your home can affect how cool it feels? Opt for light, cool colors on walls and furnishings to create a more refreshing atmosphere. It’s like giving your home a cool makeover!
Consider repainting rooms in shades of blue, green, or purple. These colors can trick your mind into feeling cooler, even if the temperature stays the same. It’s like a little mind game with your thermostat!
Ready to Take Your Home Cooling to the Next Level?
Don’t let the summer heat get you down! Remember, a well-maintained air conditioner is your best defense against the Florida heat. Contact Climate Design today for expert HVAC services, from maintenance to upgrades. Our family-owned business has been keeping Central Florida cool for over 40 years. Let us help you keep your home cool and comfortable!
Frequently Asked Questions
How often should I have my AC serviced?
We recommend servicing your air conditioning unit annually — ideally in the spring. Regular check-ups prevent breakdowns, boost efficiency, and can extend your AC system’s lifespan.
Is it normal for my energy bills to spike in the summer?
Yes, your energy costs will increase some during summer just by using your AC more. However, a big spike might be a red flag. It could mean there’s an issue with your air condition. In that case, call a pro to check it out!
Can ceiling fans really make a difference in cooling my home?
Yes, ceiling fans can make a room feel up to 4 degrees cooler with the wind-chill effect. Just remember to turn them off when you leave the room – fans cool people, not spaces.
How can I improve my home’s insulation?
The best methods are adding blown-in insulation to your attic, sealing your ductwork, and using weatherstripping around your doors and windows.
Is it worth investing in a smart thermostat?
Yes — smart thermostats are totally worth the money. They let you set different temperatures on schedule, potentially saving you up to 10% on your cooling costs. Plus, you can control them with your smartphone and voice assistants.
