What are some basic rules to follow for keeping cool at minimum cost?
• Caulk, weather-strip, and insulate (especially the attic) to close air gaps. • Plan hot work (washing and drying clothes, baking, cooking) for cooler morning and evening hours. • Pull drapes and shades over windows facing the sun. • Keep windows and doors closed when the air conditioning is on. • Use a thermostat control to automatically increase or decrease home temperatures for daytime/nighttime differences to save money. • Set thermostat control at highest comfortable level– each degree raised reduces energy consumption by 3-4 percent. • Clean or replace air filters regularly. • With a new system, consider a service contract for a specified period of time. • Keep the outside unit free of leaves or other airflow obstructions. • Have the air conditioning unit cleaned each spring.
