Warm-Weather Tips: How To Stay Efficient, Safe & Cool

As spring turns into summer in Southeast Alabama, we all tend to work in the yard, catch up on projects around the house, and, eventually, look for ways to stay cool without our energy bills hitting the roof.

Here are some ideas to help you keep cool through these warmer months, be more energy efficient and stay safe.

Inside the House

• Schedule regular maintenance for your air conditioning system and get your air ducts checked.
• Ceiling fans help cool people, not rooms. Use them only when you’re at home.
• Limit opening your windows to the mornings and evenings, closing them during the hottest part of the day.
• Keep your thermostat at a comfortable level when you are home but higher than normal when you’re away. A programmable thermostat can adjust your home’s temperature automatically.
• Avoid placing lamps or television sets near the thermostat, which can sense the heat put off by them and cause your AC to run longer than needed.
• Seal any cracks and openings that could let warmer air into your home or cooler air escape.
• Use natural light instead of lamps or overhead lights, but avoid direct sunlight when the sun is at its brightest.
• Install white window shades, drapes, or blinds to reflect heat away from the house.
• Change your air conditioner filter regularly to keep your unit running efficiently.

Outside the House

• Keep ladders 10 feet away from overhead power lines and carry ladders horizontally to avoid contact with lines.
• Use LED bulbs in outdoor light fixtures. They consume less energy and are typically brighter.
• Use a timer on outdoor lighting or switch to motion-activated lights so that exterior lights are only on when needed.
• Solar lights are good options for lighting pathways around the exterior of your home, especially in areas that get plenty of sun.
• If you have a swimming pool, make sure you have an energy-efficient pump and that it’s only used when needed. Variable-speed pumps can run at different speeds throughout the day, which can help lower energy usage.
• Landscaping and planting the right trees around your home can help provide shade, reducing solar heat gain during the day. Dense evergreen trees and shrubs can even help block winds. Go with native and drought-tolerant species to reduce the need for watering.
• Use hand tools instead of electric tools when working in the yard.
• Make sure power tools are in good condition and check for frayed cords, broken plugs and damaged housings. Repair or replace damaged tools.
• Be sure any extension cords you use outside are rated for outdoor use.
• Unplug outdoor tools when not in use.
• Remember, water and electricity don’t mix. Avoid damp areas when using electricity.