Summer Cooling Tips

There's no better way to help our environment but lessen our energy consumption and while doing that, we need not suffer this summer. The following are helpful hints from a trusted home inspector.

As summer sets in, so does the increase to our energy bills because A/Cs are often turned on so we all need to find new ways to keep the house cool without wasting energy. You can save money and conserve energy by keeping your home naturally cool without using air-conditioning. Here are some helpful tips to keep your home cool during the hot season.

Let the Cool Air In - When the day cools off, open doors and windows to allow the cool air to circulate through the rooms of your home. Turn on fans to create a cross-breeze, circulating the cool night air. Keep the kitchen cabinets open all night because they can store heat in your home.

Keep Out the Heat - As the temperature climbs during the morning, close doors, and shut your blinds and curtains to block out the sun. This way you keep the cooler air in and prevent hot air from entering. Close doors quickly when entering or exiting your home.

Insulate - One of the most effective ways to keep a home cool is to install adequate insulation. Insulation keeps the home cool in summer.

Seal Drafts - Seal holes, cracks and openings in your home to stop the flow of hot air seeping in through the walls and ceiling. Weather stripping and weatherizing your home greatly reduces the amount of cool air that escapes.

Turn off heat sources - Avoid using the stove and oven as much as possible. Instead, use the microwave to quickly heat food without raising the temperature of the kitchen, and set your dishwasher to use its non-heated drying cycle. Incandescent light bulbs also create heat - switch to compact fluorescents instead. Turn off lamps, electronics, and computers when not in use.

As a top Realtor, I can give you more tips on how you and your family can enjoy summer at home . If you have questions,  feel free to call me, Mynor Herrera, I can also give you expert help buying or selling in the DC, MD, & VA areas! I also specialize in Bethesda and Chevy Chase, as well as the sub-divisions of Rosemary Hills, Rock Creek Forest, East Bethesda, and Whitehall Condominium.