Tips For Saving Energy This Summer

     Summer has arrived it seems, in the Treasure Valley of Idaho. For we folks living in the Boise area, that generally means hot temps. and our energy bill will soon be on the rise. But, with a little preparation, we can reduce our energy bill substantially. I have three things you can do to get started. Now, some of these ideas are not "tre' chic", but, are you interested in saving money, or being fashion forward?

     The easiest, and cheapest, way  to save energy is by covering your windows. When the sun is hitting your windows in the morning or in the afternoon, close the blinds and curtains to block the sun from heating up your home. Light means heat. So, when the sun hits those windows it provides passive solar heat. If you are really wanting to save money and energy, you can take cardboard and cut it out to fit your window. You can cover one side with aluminum foil using glue, staples, etc. This will not only block the sun, but the foil will reflect it back away from your house. This is especially effective on windows that don't have a view to enjoy, or rooms that are seldom used, like guest rooms, and bonus rooms. I know, it's a bit 'red neck', but hey, comfortguyjerry is trying to save you money!
     The next tip is ceiling fans. They are a cheap way of keeping your house cool. Overall, they are pretty cost effective, but you have to remember to change the spin rotation direction. In summer the fan should turn clockwise, and in the winter, counter clockwise. If you need to purchase a ceiling fan, don't waste your money on a low end cheap model. They are usually nosier then high end fans. The last thing you need in the bedroom. Do your home work before you buy. I have a vaulted ceiling in my home, and the fan we have in the living area has been running nearly 24/7 for 14 years. I have it set on medium speed, so it moves the air without feeling drafty.
     The last tip is all about caulking and weather stripping. There are so many places, hundreds of them, where warm air can seep into your home through windows that are not caulked, and doors that have no weather stripping. Here is a test for your door weather stripping. Fold a sheet of copy paper in half and go outside of your front door, close the door, and try to slide the paper through the door between the jam, and the door itself. See how easy or difficult it is to slide the paper through the door.
     Time spent now summer proofing your home will save you money, plus reduce the amount of energy use, and will be kinder to the planet. For more information check our website at www.greensheating.com.