Keeping Cool while Saving Energy
• Shade room air conditioners from direct sun to reduce their workload.
Energy Savings in the Yard and Garden
• Grass is a fast-growing, high-maintenance ground cover that "browns off" quickly in dry weather. Other ground covers such as clover and other low-growing, spreading plants require less maintenance and are more drought resistant. Your local garden centre can advise you on alternatives to grass that will thrive in your area.• Longer days mean shorter nights. Adjust your outdoor lighting timers to save money and extend bulb life.
• Low-voltage outdoor lighting systems are inexpensive to buy and operate, simple to install, and safe.
• Avoid excessive lighting levels on the patio and in other outdoor living areas. Illumination should be just bright enough for safety and for relaxing on summer evenings. Install a timer, or better yet, use patio lights only when needed.
• Gas lawn mowers are a major source of air pollution and smog in many areas. Electric mowers pollute less and are much quieter too.
• Consider using electric grass and hedge trimmers instead of gas-powered trimmers. Well-maintained manual trimmers are preferred by many expert gardeners and professionals.
• A broom will clean your driveway and walkways as effectively as a gas-powered leaf blower.
Keeping it cool
• Install white window shades, drapes, or blinds to reflect heat away from the house.
• Close curtains, drapes, shades, blinds or another window covering on south- and west-facing windows during the day. Keeping them closed during the day blocks the sun and the heat from the sun's rays.
• Keep windows closed in the heat of the day. Open windows in the cool of the night.
• Install ceiling fans. Their gentle breezes help to keep you and your family comfortable.
In your Home - from top to bottom
• Open your foundation vents each spring if your home has a crawl space under it.
• Your attic gets hot in the summer -- temperatures of up to 65°C (150°F) are common. Insulation in your attic protects your home from excessive heat penetration in summer and cold penetration in winter.
• Make sure roof ventilation is adequate to prevent heat buildup in summer and moisture buildup in winter.
• If your basement is dry, use the furnace fan to circulate cool basement air throughout your home. Maintain your furnace air filter at peak efficiency to reduce indoor pollen levels.
• Close all windows, doors and chimney dampers when using your air conditioner. Don't use your hard-earned money to cool the great outdoors.
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