The start of summer means barbecues, sandy beaches and lots of time spent outside. While it might be easy to stay cool lounging by the lake with an icy beverage, keeping your home comfortable can be more difficult – and more costly.
Luckily, there are lots of simple and inexpensive things that you can do to heat-proof your home. Here are some tips to help you stay cool without breaking the bank:
• Schedule regular maintenance for your air conditioner. A well-performing air conditioner uses electricity more efficiently, which helps keep your energy bills down. While you’re at it, take some time to clear any leaves, branches and debris from around your unit.
• Ovens can quickly heat up your kitchen. Enjoy the outdoors and fire up the barbecue. You can even grill your vegetables and potatoes for a tasty and energy efficient meal.
• Close your eastern- and southern-facing windows and blinds during the day. This will prevent the sun’s rays from heating up your home.
• Find and seal air leaks around your windows and doors. This will help to keep warm air outside and cool air inside.
• You might be surprised just how much energy clothes dryers use. Take advantage of the warm weather and use a clothesline or drying rack to air-dry your clothes.
• Electronics can throw off a lot of heat and tax your air conditioner. Unplug any electronics that you aren’t using, or invest in a smart power bar to shut your electronics automatically.
For more tips on how to save energy and money all year, visit hydro.mb.ca/your_home.