Summer is truly a special season. Vacations, backyard cookouts, pool parties, and lemonade stands all make this a wonderful time of year. But, with all that summer fun comes the summer heat, and that heat can result in higher home electric bills. Luckily, there are ways to combat the heat and reduce those bills each month. From closing the blinds to installing new replacement windows in Mountain View, CA, we are going to go over all the tips-big and small- you can do to keep your home cool.
Window Coverings
One of the easiest things you can do to keep your home cool this summer is to close your blinds or curtains in the heat of the day. This can help reflect all of the outside heat and keep it from coming into your windows. You can even take it up a notch by adding blackout curtains, These curtains are made from material that goes above and beyond for keeping the outside sunshine from coming in.
Making Shade
Look at the outside of your home and see what you can do to create shade on windows and external walls. Perhaps you could plant a tree to cast shade on the hottest side of the house. Add some lush bushes or plants in front of a window. Maybe an addition of an awning or shade would be beneficial to block some of the heat.
Ceiling Fan Direction
Did you know to maximize your ceiling fan benefit, the direction it rotates should be changed in the summer months? Check your fans and make sure they are rotating in a counterclockwise direction. This forces the air down helping to create a more colling effect.
If you don’t have any ceiling fans, consider installing some. You can find several affordable options at your local hardware store.
Change Your Lighting
If you are still using incandescent lightbulbs, you may be adding more heat to your home without even realizing it. While these lightbulbs are not nearly as common as they once were, some homes still may be using them. Try switching these out with newer energy-saving bulbs. Not only will it reduce your heat, but it will also help you save electricity.
Check for Gaps
Check all of your windows and doors for gaps. If you find any, make sure to seal them to stop letting the cold inside air out and the hot outside air in. If you find damage around your windows that cannot be repaired, it may be time for new replacement windows.
New windows will not only save you money by fitting better and more snug, but since they also offer so many options for being energy-efficient, you will be getting the most bang for your buck with this investment.
If you would like to know more about how new replacement windows in Mountain View, CA can save you money this season, give us a call. We are happy to discuss with you the benefits the windows can provide as well as all of your options.