Summer is just around the corner, and although the official start date isn’t until June, the temperatures are already creeping higher. As the summer temperatures start to rise, it’s tempting to crank up the air conditioning and stay indoors in the cool air. However, this can quickly become expensive and put unnecessary strain on your system, and it’s not always the most sustainable option. You can do a few things to keep cool without overusing the AC.
Utilize Your Ceiling Fans
Ceiling fans are a great way to circulate air and keep yourself cool while at home. Make sure you’re using them in the right direction – counterclockwise in the summer to push cool air down. It’s also important to understand that a ceiling fan cools people down; it does not cool the room down. The increased circulation of air creates a windchill effect on your skin, which makes you feel cooler. It does nothing actually to lower the temperature of the room. So make sure to turn the ceiling fan off when you exit the room to avoid wasting electricity.
Increase Natural Ventilation
Good ventilation is key to keeping cool. Open windows when it’s cooler outside and let the fresh air in. If you have an attic fan, use it to help vent hot air out of your home. Remember to close up all of those windows and doors once you turn your AC on to prevent loss of cool air.
And finally, don’t forget about proper maintenance for your AC unit. Regularly changing the filters, cleaning the coils, and keeping it clean can all help to keep your AC running efficiently. With these simple tips, you can stay cool without breaking the bank or putting too much strain on your air conditioning system
