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Spring is here and summer is around the corner meaning sunny days and warmer temperatures. Now is a great time to make sure your home is ready for summer so your energy bill is not increasing as the outdoor temperatures keep rising. Follow these simple tips so you can enjoy your summer chilling by the pool and not sweating over paying the electricity bill.Air Conditioning System First, change your filters in your heating/cooling system which is especially important after this cold winter when the furnace was used frequently. Replace or clean them regularly - at least once a month. Next change your thermostat over to "cool" and test the system by turning the temperature down. If the air conditioner does not turn on, first check to make sure no breakers are tripped. If you can't figure out the problem, call your heating and air conditioning repair person. Calling early may keep you from making an "emergency" call when the temperatures are soaring and the repair people are too busy which can mean a higher repair bill. If your cooling system turns on, make sure it is putting out adequate cooling. If it's not, and you can't figure out the problem, call your heating and air conditioning repair person. A recommended temperature is 78 degrees. If your air conditioner needs replacement do it before the hot weather arrives because heating & air conditioning repair people will be very busy. Insulation, thermostats, and fans The nice cool air your system produces may leak out if your air ducts aren’t sealed. Check the air ducts to make sure they’re sealed and not leaking. Attic insulation can be compacted throughout the year where you may need to add 5 to 8 inches to also prevent cold air from escaping. Your windows and doors and other parts of the house may need caulking and weather stripping. Solar window film can be used to cover windows to keep out the heat. Consider changing your old thermostat to a programmable one. You can save up to $100 a year by using a new set-back thermostat. Consider installing a whole-house fan that uses cool air in the evening to cool the entire house and push hot air out of the attic area. Install ceiling fans or whole house fans to help reduce your need to use the air conditioner. Take down the old storm windows, if you live in areas where you need them, and put up screens in their place. Follow these tips, and you should be able to keep your cool all summer long. (Images provided by Wikipedia.)
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