Energy Saving Tips During Warm Wisconsin Summers
Wisconsin may be a part of the top five coldest states in the US, but that doesn’t mean we don’t get some crazy hot days during the summer too! That means that we can expect higher energy bills in the summertime from the extra air conditioning. We can use our windows as much as possible, but with the high humidity and unpredictable weather, that’s not always an option. So what are some ways to save some money on energy costs this summer?
We’ve broken down 5 reasons more and more homeowners are choosing to build new homes:
1. Make sure your a/c is functioning properly.
Check your filters, clean out any build up, and even replace your unit if need be. This may be a bigger expense at the moment, but it can save you quite a bit in the long run!
2. Check windows, doors, and vents for poor seals.
Double check that any crack that can let heat in (and valuable air conditioning out!) is sealed.
3. Get outside!
Spend as much time outside as possible to reduce other energy needs like lights, television, and cranking up the A/C!
4. Turn down your hot water heater!
This may not seem like a big deal, but turning down your hot water heater a few degrees in summer can dramatically affect your electricity bill! Besides, there’s nothing worse than a steamy hot shower after a 90 degree day!
5. Close vents in unused rooms.
If you have a guest room or even dining room that rarely gets used, cover or close the vents so that other rooms get more air.
6. Teach kids the importance of closing doors and windows.
During summer your kids are probably running in and out and will often forget to close the door behind them. This can allow all of the hot air to pour inside and cause your a/c to go into overdrive to counteract the warmth! Don’t forget what your dad told you 29,000 times a year growing up: we aren’t paying to air condition the outside!
7. Use windows at night.
If you have a single story home that is easier to cool down during the day, switch off your a/c at night, open up your windows, and turn on a fan to let the breeze cool down your home!
8. Turn off as much as you can.
Fans in unused rooms, lights, tvs, radios, and any other random electronics that you don’t use all day can be a huge leach when it comes to your electricity bill! Turning off and unplugging these devices will trim quite a bit off of your bill.
Summer doesn’t mean you have to blow your entire budget just to keep your house cool, and it also doesn’t mean being miserable in your own home! With these easy tips you can cut costs and still stay comfortable all season long!
*Bonus tip* Use a reputable builder when building your home so that you can trust things like windows, doors, and installation are being done right the first time! Redleaf Homes is a premier home builder in SE Wisconsin and is proud to be one of the highest recommended contractors in our field! Our team is highly skilled and experienced so you can trust that our work will stand the test of time (and crazy Wisconsin weather!) Give Redleaf Homes a call today to get started on a free consultation!
Thinking about building new in SE Wisconsin? Give us a call to discuss your options!
