Reduce Your Energy Costs This Summer!

Newsletter/2009/May/Reduce Energy Costs

Summer is almost here, a time to open up the windows and turn off the heater. Hot weather and air conditioner use can increase your energy costs almost as much as the winter months. To combat higher temperatures, there are several ways to reduce your energy costs this summer with simple home improvement projects.

Air Conditioning

The biggest energy user in your house may be your air conditioning system. If your system is more than 10 years old, it is time to upgrade to a newer, more efficient model. Older models run at about 60% efficiency, while new air conditioning systems run at more than 90% efficiency. This means upgrading your A/C unit can drop a $100 bill to $65 per month.

New tax credits are available to help cut the cost of replacing your air conditioning system. If you replace your unit in 2009 with an energy efficient air conditioner, you can receive a tax credit of 30% of the project cost, up to $1,500. Combining energy savings and tax credit savings, the system could pay for itself in a matter of months.

If you want to increase the efficiency of your current system, cleanliness is key. Clear debris off the condenser—the part of the unit that is outside. Make sure your air filters are clean and vacuum the dust out of the condenser, the portion of the unit on the inside of the house.

Before temperatures rise, be sure to check that your unit is working. Turn your system to 65° to ensure it will start up and look for dripping water or oil on outside hoses. These are clear indicators it is time to call in a professional for system maintenance or replacement.
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Windows

Energy-efficient windows can save on heating costs during the winter by insulating your house from drafts and keeping warm air in. These windows will also keep the hot air outside during the summer and keep your air conditioner from overworking. Energy-efficient, double-paned windows will reduce your heating/cooling costs and also provide great curb appeal.
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Siding

It's estimated that up to 40% of your heating/cooling energy is lost through a home's exterior walls. Energy-efficient siding will lower energy bills both during the summer and winter months—providing insulation from both heat and cold. Updated siding will keep cooled air from escaping your house and reduce the workload on your air conditioning unit.

If your house is older and needs new siding, it is a great time to modify your home's insulation at the same time. Blow-in insulation can be added to walls and attic spaces to better insulate the home and further reduce energy costs.
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Roofing

Not a lot of cooled air escapes through your roof, but a sun-absorbing roof will heat the attic, and make your home even warmer. When replacing your roof, new shingles made with reflective material will not significantly change the look of your home, but will cool it by reflecting the sunlight. Changing to lighter colored shingles could reduce cooling costs by 10% and possibly more in warmer climates.
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Easy Tips

You don't need to take on large projects or invest in new systems in order to reduce summer energy costs. Taking simple steps, like setting your thermostat to 70° instead of 65° will save 5% on your energy bill. The tried-and-true trick of leaving your windows open at night and closing them in the morning will reduce your A/C use, as will keeping your blinds closed to keep the sun from heating the room. With a little more patience, you can also grow your own cooling unit—plant fast-growing trees near your home, and in 5-10 years you could have a lovely, natural sun block for your home.

Reducing Your Energy Costs: The Bottom Line

Don't sweat your summer energy bills—it is possible to take steps that will reduce summer cooling costs. Simple projects like replacing windows or cleaning your A/C unit will make a big difference in your bills, or you can call in a professional who will update your cooling system for you.

Disclaimer: This article offers general guidelines and is not intended as professional advice.