Tips for Keeping Cool and Saving Cash this Summer

Last year's record heat really tooks it's toll on air conditioning systems and our pocketbooks!  Now that we are settling into the air conditioning season for this year, I thought it was a good time to remind folks of some of the different ways they can help stay cool and save energy during the heat.

#1 Keep a Close Eye on the Forecast
There are plenty of websites and smartphone apps available these days to keep you informed several days in advance of a hot spell.  If you can anticipate the heat before it happens, you can turn on your A/C in the evening or early morning hours prior to the forecast for heat.

#2  Plant a Large Shade Tree
If the south and west side of your home receives a great deal of direct sunlight during the afternoon and evening hours, you might want to consider planting a large shade tree.  Your local nursery can tell you which varieties are fast growing and provide the maximum amount of coverage.  If you can't wait for it to grow, many nurseries and tree services have planting trucks that can deliver and plant large balled and burlapped trees.

#3  Keep Doors and Windows Closed
I realize that this tip is purely common sense, however, there are many areas of the house that are easy to forget.  If you are closing up your house after having the windows open, don't forget those rooms that you rarely enter (i.e., kids bedroom, guest room).  Once you have closed the windows, don't forget to also close the blinds or drapes too...especially if the rooms are on the south and/or west side of the house.

#4  Set a Reasonable Temperature

The ductwork in most homes is designed to allow for 15-20 degrees of cooling over the outside temperature.  It doesn't matter how big or efficient your air conditioning unit may be, if the ductwork can't handle it, you simply will not get 70 degrees when it is 105 degrees outside.  Every year we run unnecessary service calls to individuals who think their systems are not working properly.  Save yourself the hassle and cost of a service call by realizing your systems capabilities.

I hope you have found these tips helpful.  If so, please stop by our Facebook page and let us know @ 1st Choice Heating - Facebook

If you are located in Southeastern Wisconsin and haven't had your air conditioner tuned up in a while, or would like a quote for a new system, contact us at 262-547-2030, or click on our website at 1st Choice Heating and Cooling.