June 2020 | Volume 7, Issue 9

Beat the heat

• When temperatures are comfortable, turn off the air conditioner, open windows, and use fans
• Close curtains and shades on windows during the day
• Consider using a dehumidifier instead of an air conditioner.
• Get rid of hot air in the kitchen while cooking with an exhaust fan
• Use your dishwasher at cooler times and/or let your dishes air day
• Avoid activities that add heat or humidity during the day’s hottest periods 
  

• If you use air conditioning, set your thermostat to 78 degrees
• When leaving for more than five hours, raise or program the thermostat five to 10 degrees higher
• Consider using a window air conditioner or a compressor unit on a central A/C that is in a shaded area
• Keep air conditioners and compressors free from leaves and other debris
• Keep cooling systems tuned up, with periodic maintenance by service professionals
• Clean or replace the air filter once a month or as needed
• Shut the vents or close off unoccupied rooms and spaces
  

• To block solar heat, plant leafy trees on the south and west sides of a home 
• Shrubs and ground cover plants can shade the ground and pavement around a home and reduce surrounding air temperatures
• A hedge can be planted to shade a sidewalk or driveway to reduce heat
• Climbing vines on a lattice or trellis can be used to shade areas while admitting cooling breezes
  

• Use electric ovens, dishwashers, clothes washers and dryers, and other large appliances or office equipment in the early morning or late evening hours whenever possible
• Make sure the power management or sleep mode features are enabled on all your home electronics devices
• Turn off electronics, including computers, monitors, and copiers, at night and on the weekends
• Consider replacing older, inefficient appliances and electronics with updated models; and look for the ENERGY STAR logo, which indicates a high-efficiency product
  

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