With temperatures rising this summer, your utility bill most likely will too. But there is a chance to keep cool and comfortable when the bills go up. Here are some products and practices that will help you stay cool this summer :
– Meet a cool operator : The small air conditioner quickly cools a room and recovers easily from any power outages. It is also quiet enough for a bedroom. (Install this AC in a shady window, it uses more energy when it’s direct sunlight.)
– Banish humidity from your home : A dehumidifier is excellent at removing moisture from the air without wasting any energy. It is also quiet enough for living areas. (If you have a damp basement, set your unit to drain automatically.)
– Reflect on your windows : Depending on where you live, there are many styles of windows that feature glass options that vary in the amount of sunlight they let in or block out. (If you have plain panes, you can add low-emissive film to reduce heat buildup.)
– Become a fan of ceiling fans : Ceiling fans are usually inexpensive to buy and run, whether you use them alone or with an air conditioner. (Fans with blades that have a textured surface are noisier than those with smooth blades.)
– Heat your food, not your house : You want a microwave that performs well. Heating evenness is very good and a sensor determines when the food is done. (You can steam veggies and poach chicken or fish while still keeping the kitchen cool.)
Keep in mind : You can keep your curtains closed during the day and open your windows at night to take advantage of the cooler temperatures. You can also run your washing machine and dishwasher in the morning or late at night when temperatures are cooler and utility rates are usually less.
