Hot Weather/Staying Cool—
By Isobel Charle, producer, Oregon News Service, a bureau of Public News Service.
Rising temperatures and energy rates mean staying cool will cost more this year. But experts say there are some easy, cheap tricks to help keep your home from feeling like a sauna.
New data shows U.S. households are projected to spend nearly $800 on electricity this summer, an 8.5% increase from last year.
Jami Seymore, spokesperson for the Energy Trust of Oregon, said homeowners should think of their homes as whole systems rather than just blasting one air conditioner or a single fan.
“Each different part of your home plays a role in keeping you cool and comfortable during the summer,” Seymore explained. “The good news is that even small improvements can make a really noticeable difference in both comfort and energy bills.”
Seymore stressed insulation is one of the most important factors in keeping a home cool. For people who cannot add insulation, she noted that sealing gaps and cracks can help keep cool air from escaping. The gaps are most often found around doors and windows and can be filled with caulk or weather stripping from a hardware store, she added.
Air filters are another important part of a home’s cooling system. Seymore pointed out that dirty filters force air conditioners to work harder to move air, using more energy. She recommended checking filters regularly and changing or cleaning them when they get dirty.
“A good rule of thumb is about every three months,” Seymore advised. “Think of it with the change of seasons. So, in perfect timing with us getting into summer, now is a good time to check those filters.”
For larger improvements, such as buying an energy-efficient heat pump, Seymore noted that Energy Trust offers incentives to make upgrades more affordable. Also, a smart thermostat can help keep temperatures consistent throughout a house.
