Many people look forward to the summer months all year long because they are filled with barbecues, get–togethers, time by the beach or pool, and many other exciting outdoor activities. However, the summer cooling costs often turn out to be a significant burden for most people; in fact, the cooling costs may account for up to 50% of the total energy consumption in the average home. Americans spend billions of dollars each year to keep their houses cool with air conditioners. However, following some simple house cooling tips can save people hundreds of dollars each year on utility bills.

The recent heat wave that swept across certain parts of the United States dredged up questions about how best to beat the sweltering heat of summer. Efficient home cooling saves energy and money and improves the whole family’s quality of life.

Simple Cooling Tips for Your Home

• One of the basic tips to stay cool in summer is to keep the sun out. The hot summer heat can pass through an uncovered window as if there is nothing there. One should simply cover the windows facing the sun with drapes, shades, or blinds.
• Sometimes, reducing the indoor temperature may be as simple as switching off the lighting, appliances and electrical devices, all common sources of internal heat gain. In fact, this is one of the simplest summer cooling tips. In addition, switching off such devices will reflect positively on one’s wallet.
• A ceiling fan is a great investment for a home when it comes to beating the summer heat. A ceiling fan can make a room feel cooler by up to 7 degrees, and even the most power–hungry fan costs significantly less to run than a typical air conditioning system.
• The condition of the air conditioning unit’s filter can affect not only the quality of indoor air, but also the efficiency of the system as a whole. Heating and cooling experts recommend replacing the filter at least four times a year.
• Another method of increasing the efficiency of the air conditioning system is by keeping the outdoor unit cooler by planting shrubs and trees that allow airflow, but still provide shade. Shading the outdoor unit can raise the system’s performance by up to 10 percent.

The condition of the air conditioning system is crucial; therefore, one should schedule a maintenance inspection before the summer heat arrives.