As the temperature in Essendon begins to rise, keeping your home cool becomes a top priority. However, cranking the air conditioner can lead to skyrocketing energy bills.
Check out these 22 energy-saving tips for summer to help you stay cool and keep your wallet happy during the warmer Melbourne months.
1. Seal the Leaks:
Start by checking for gaps and cracks in windows, doors, and walls. Ensure air ducts are properly sealed and insulated to maximise cooling efficiency. Proper insulation prevents cool air from escaping and warm air from entering.
2. Upgrade Insulation:
Invest in good insulation to keep your home cool in the summer and warm in the winter. It’s a long-term solution for energy efficiency.
3. Energy-Efficient Windows:
Consider upgrading to windows with low-emissivity glass (commonly known as low-e glass) to reduce heat transfer and keep your home cooler.
4. Reflective Window Film:
Apply reflective film to windows to block out the sun’s rays and minimise heat absorption, while still allowing natural light.
5. Close Unused Doors:
Concentrate cool air in the rooms you’re using by keeping doors closed to unused spaces. Using door snakes or draught stoppers will also keep the cool air in and warm air out.
6. Check Air Ducts:
Ensure your air ducts are properly sealed and insulated to maximize the efficiency of your cooling system.
7. Regular AC Maintenance:
Schedule regular maintenance for your air conditioner, including cleaning or replacing filters, to keep it running efficiently.
8. Set Thermostat Efficiently:
Adjust your thermostat to a higher temperature when you’re away and lower when you’re at home. Even a small change can make a big difference.
9. Programmable Thermostat:
Invest in a programmable thermostat to automatically adjust the temperature based on your daily routine, optimising energy usage.
10. Ceiling Fans:
Use Fans Wisely: Ceiling fans can help circulate air and make the room feel cooler, allowing you to set your thermostat a bit higher, but make sure to turn them off when you leave the room, as fans cool people, not spaces.
11. LED Bulbs:
Switch to energy-efficient LED bulbs to reduce heat emission and lower your energy consumption.
12. Outdoor Cooking:
Take the heat out of the kitchen by using your grill or outdoor cooking area during the summer months.
13. Time Appliance Use:
Operate heat-generating appliances like dishwashers, dryers, and stoves during the cooler parts of the day.
14. Whole House Fan:
Install a whole house fan to pull in cool outside air and push out warm indoor air, providing natural ventilation.
15. Close Curtains or Blinds:
Block out the sun during the hottest part of the day to reduce heat gain and keep your home cooler.
16. Plant Shade Trees:
Strategically plant trees, bushes or vines around your home to provide natural shade and reduce the impact of the sun’s rays.
17. Cross-Ventilation:
Open windows on opposite sides of your home to allow for better air circulation, creating a cooling breeze.
18. Natural Ventilation:
Take advantage of cooler evening air by opening windows and allowing fresh air to circulate throughout your home.
19. Shade Outdoor Units:
Provide shade for your outdoor air conditioning unit to improve its efficiency and reduce energy consumption.
20. Thermal Curtains:
Install thermal curtains to help insulate windows and keep heat out, especially during peak sunlight hours.
21. Upgrade to Energy-Efficient Appliances:
When it’s time to replace appliances, opt for energy efficient appliances with excellent ratings to save on energy costs, including air conditioners, refrigerators, dryers, washing machines and smart TVs.
22. Cool Roof:
Consider a cool roof with reflective materials that absorb less heat, helping to keep your home cooler.
Share these energy-saving tips with your family members to ensure everyone is on board with keeping the home cool while minimising energy consumption.
The best part? When it comes time to sell your home, energy-saving appliances and features will add value to your home and become a huge incentive for potential buyers!
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