5 Tips For Staying Cool This Summer
Insulate And Close Off the House
Using both bulk insulation (big batts) and foil insulation (thin sheets) together can enable your house to stay cool in the summer, as well as warm in the winter. Insulating your home can save you up to 45% on energy costs.
Consider adding glazing to your windows as well as improving the seals around your windows.
Air Conditioning
It can be tempting to turn your air conditioner all the way down in hot weather. However, keeping your home at 26 degrees will keep you comfortable and save you money. An increase of 15% in cooling costs is possible just by lowering your thermostat by one degree.
Reduce your AC Load
Air conditioner owners can reduce their load and energy consumption in a number of ways. So your AC can run as efficiently as possible, close the windows and blinds. Be sure to turn off the air conditioning when you leave the house and only use it on the hottest days.
If you choose to install an external AC unit, make sure it is the right size for your space. In addition, make sure it is installed on the southern or shaded side of your property.
Keep the cool in
Before the sun hits your home in the morning, close your windows and shades to keep the heat out. You need to pay extra attention to the windows along the north and west sides of your property. Shade in the summer and sun in the winter is what awnings, deciduous trees, and pergolas with deciduous vines can provide.
As the night draws in, open up the windows and let the cool breeze circulate through the house. In many parts of Australia, it is hot during the day and cold at night, so you can take advantage of this.
Turn off unused powered appliances
Household lights can have a significant impact on the temperature of a room during hot summer days. Turn off anything that generates heat, like lamps, plug-in power adapters, computers and televisions, when you aren't using them.
Whether you’re looking at buying your next home or looking at that next investment property, contact Harcourt’s Beyond today and find out how we can help set you up for the ever-changing future.
