Smart Cooling Tips for an Energy-Efficient Home

As temperatures start to rise, keeping your home cool doesn’t have to mean cranking up the air conditioning. In fact, simple strategies like using fans effectively and improving airflow can make a big difference in your comfort— and your energy bills.

At night, we recommend using fans to draw in cooler night air. Then, close the windows during the day to keep cooler air inside. Externally vented exhaust fans in the kitchen can also help remove hot air while cooking, reducing the load on your cooling system.

Cross-ventilation is another powerful (and free!) way to keep your home comfortable. By opening windows on opposite sides of your house, you can create a natural breeze that keeps air circulating. Ceiling fans are also a great way to increase comfort, as well as save energy. If you are using a fan with a reverse direction function, set it to blow upward in winter. During the summer months, switch to downward airflow to create a cool breeze. 

If you do use a cooling unit, we recommend installing an efficient one. Upgrading to a high-efficiency heat pump can keep you cool and dry in summer and provide highly efficient heating in the winter. Heat pumps also eliminate the need for difficult seasonal removal and installation. For more information on available Efficiency Maine heat pump rebates, click here. 

If you choose to buy a traditional air conditioner, consider choosing an ENERGY STARⓇ-certified model. ENERGY STAR^Ⓡ-certified air conditioners come with timers that can help you use minimum power to cool your room. Be sure windows are tightly sealed, so cool air does not escape. Clean the filters of your air conditioner regularly to improve both efficiency and performance. Keep the front and back of the air conditioner unit clear of obstructions. Removing the window air conditioning unit in the winter will help avoid a possible air leak. 

With a few simple adjustments, you can keep your space cool, comfortable, and energy-efficient all summer long. For more energy efficiency tips, find our full tips booklet on our website here. To order a free copy of the Efficiency Maine Energy Efficiency Tips Booklet, email info@efficiencymaine.com or call 866-376-2463.