Conserve Water and Energy this Summer
Summer days are full of carefree fun, but make sure you aren’t being careless with your water and energy use this season. These smart tips will help you conserve valuable resources and will make a difference on your summer utility bills.
Summer Electricity Conservation Tips
Reprogram your thermostat for summer cooling schedules – set it to 78 degrees when the home is occupied, and 85 degrees while you are gone. Setback periods of 8 or more hours can save you as much as 15 percent on your summer cooling costs.
Instead of using your dryer, hang clothes in the sun to dry when the weather is nice. Not only will you save electricity on the load, but the sunlight can help eliminate tough stains.
Make sure to check your air conditioner filter once a month during the summer, and change as needed. A dirty air filter will restrict airflow through the system, forcing your air conditioner to work harder to move cool air into your home. The harder the system works, the more energy it consumes.
Cut back air conditioning use by taking advantage of a whole house fan. This equipment draws cool air inside and forces hot air out; using the fan instead of your air conditioner when outdoor temperatures are mild, such as after dark and before sunrise, will keep your home comfortable without high energy use.
A regular ceiling fan can increase cooling efficiency, too – with a ceiling fan running, your home will feel cooler with less air conditioning use, allowing you to set your thermostat back about 4 degrees without noticing a difference!
Summer Water Conservation Tips
It doesn’t have to be summer to shorten your shower, but skipping the long soak this season sure will free up some time and save water. Reducing your shower time by only 2 minutes can save as much as 150 gallons of water each month!
Summer is a great time to take advantage of patio dining with friends and explore local eateries. Whether you’re enjoying a root beer or another brew, if you won’t be drinking water, be sure to tell your server “no thanks.” You’ll save that complimentary glass of water from being poured down the sink later.
Whether you’re washing your farmers market finds or the goods grown in your garden, change the way you rinse. Instead of allowing water to flow freely into your sink while you scrub away dirt, switch to a bucket that is pre-filled with water. Once finished, pour your rinse water over the garden or other plants instead of down the drain.
Rethink your car washing strategy this summer. While the weather is inviting for do-it-yourself jobs, washing your car with your hose can use around 150 gallons of water – an automatic carwash only consumes around 50 gallons per wash.
If you are looking for quality cooling and water systems that can help you conserve resources this summer, ACE Air Conditioning & Heating Service, Inc. will be happy to help you – call us today to schedule a free estimate!
