Home feeling a little too warm in the summer? Finding your energy bill is a higher than what you would like? There are some simple changes you can make to your home to make it cooler and more energy efficient in the summer, as well as year round.

Keep Air Ducts Clean

It may be the last thing you think about, but keeping your air ducts clean can result in significant energy savings since air isn’t being blocked by dust and other buildup. The EPA recommends that air ducts only be cleaned as needed, not regularly, as it could result in unintentional damage. However, they do recommend that air ducts be inspected at the start of colder months to reduce the chance of carbon monoxide poisoning.

Install Ceiling Fans

In the summer, ceiling fans can help cool down the home by pushing the air in a room downwards, producing a wind-chill effect. If you cannot feel air coming off of your fan, it may be set to “winter” mode, where it forces warm air downwards. To change your fan to summer mode, there should be a switch on the base that will allow you to change the fan’s direction. Just remember to adjust your thermostat accordingly for the best savings.

Replace Old Windows

Older windows typically lose more energy than the energy efficient windows that are on the market today because they tend not to be as insulated. Also, if the seals on your windows are broken, a lot of energy will be lost through them.

Cover Up Windows

For maximum efficiency, pair energy efficient windows with window treatments that are designed to be energy efficient as well. Keeping your windows uncovered on a hot day lets a lot of heat in, making your A/C work overtime. Covering up your windows in the afternoon on a hot day, especially those that face the sun, goes a long way in keeping your home cool and reducing energy costs by up to almost half.

Investing in window treatments like honeycomb shades that are designed to be energy efficient is an excellent and beautiful way to keep your home energy efficient. Honeycomb shades also offer room darkening options, which block the sun and keep your rooms cool during the heat of the day. In fact, Many Hunter Douglas Honeycomb shades are so energy efficient that they qualify for a tax credit.

Plant Shade Trees

Planting shade trees around your home is a good, natural way to boost your energy efficiency. For this method to work, you will need to plant deciduous trees like oaks since they are leafier and blocks more sunlight, cooling down your house. Be sure to plant them on the west facing side of your home for the best results.

Learn More About Our Energy Efficient Window Treatments

Call Victor Shade Today at (314) 428-7979

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