If you have a new energy-efficient central air conditioning system, your cooling costs are already lower than ever before. But did you know there are other active steps you can take to reduce those costs even further? Here are some ideas that go beyond simple air conditioning that are affordable and will help keep your house even cooler during those scorching summer months.
Take advantage of natural breezes to push out hot air. Create a beneficial draft in your house by opening lower level window on the side of the house towards which the breeze is blowing. Open all interior doors, and then open upstairs on the opposite side of the house from the open ones downstairs. This simple action will draw warm air upwards and out of the house, and it will also help to clean out potential hazardous air and optimize breathing for family members.
Install ceiling fans in as many rooms as possible. Operating costs for such fans is a mere fraction of the costs of running an air conditioner, and they look great too! When the fans are set to blow downward, the increased circulation allows you to set your cooling system at least nine degrees higher than usual: and that saves some serious money. Ceiling fans don't replace an air conditioner altogether, but they do make effective partners in cost reduction.
How are your attic vents? Did you know that attic temperatures can reach as high as 150 degrees during the hottest summer months? Installing just a few vents (one at each end of the room and three or so along the long side) can bring temperatures down and prevent all that excess heat from radiating down into your living areas. Many do-it-yourselfers are pleased to discover that this is a relatively easy home improvement project that doesn't cost a lot of money either.
Consider installing window film. Today's products are much more attractive and affordable than their predecessors and the best types can actually reject up to 75 percent of the sun's heat. And there's no need to draw your drapes or blinds to block out that gorgeous view outside.