With summer just around the corner, May is the perfect time to get your home ready for rising temperatures. From optimizing your air conditioning system to improving insulation, a little preparation now can help you stay cool, save energy, and reduce costs during the hottest months. At Inspectrum, we know how important it is to maintain a comfortable and efficient home. Here are our top energy efficient tips to prepare for the summer heat.

1. Service Your Air Conditioning System

Your air conditioner works hardest during summer, so it’s essential to ensure it’s running efficiently before the heat hits:

  • Schedule a professional tune-up: Regular maintenance improves performance and extends the lifespan of your unit.
  • Replace air filters: Dirty filters restrict airflow and reduce cooling efficiency.
  • Clean around the outdoor unit: Remove debris like leaves or dirt to ensure proper ventilation.

Tip: Set your thermostat to 78°F when you’re home and higher when you’re away to balance comfort and energy savings.

2. Energy Efficiency Tips To Improve Your Insulation and Sealing

Good insulation helps keep your home cool in the summer and warm in the winter:

  • Seal gaps and cracks: Use caulk or weatherstripping to close gaps around windows and doors.
  • Check attic insulation: Proper insulation reduces heat transfer and helps your home stay cooler.
  • Install window films: Reflective films can reduce heat gain through windows, cutting down on cooling costs.

3. Optimize Ceiling Fans

Ceiling fans can make a big difference in cooling efficiency:

  • Set fans to spin counterclockwise: This creates a cooling breeze that complements your air conditioning.
  • Use fans in occupied rooms only: Fans cool people, not spaces, so turn them off when you leave a room.

4. Reduce Heat Gain Indoors

Keep your home cooler by minimizing heat from external sources:

  • Close blinds or curtains during the day: Block sunlight to reduce indoor heat.
  • Switch to LED bulbs: They produce less heat and use less energy than traditional bulbs.
  • Avoid using ovens or stoves: Opt for outdoor grilling or no-cook meals on hot days.

5. Inspect and Maintain Your Plumbing

Summer water use increases with gardening, outdoor activities, and hot weather. Alongside water conservation, consider these energy efficient tips to keep your outdoor routine sustainable:

  • Check outdoor faucets and hoses: Repair leaks to avoid wasting water.
  • Inspect sprinkler systems: Ensure they’re functioning properly and set timers for optimal water usage.
  • Install a rain barrel: Collect rainwater for your garden to save on water bills.

Stay Cool and Save Energy With These Energy Efficiency Tips

By taking these steps, you’ll create a comfortable, energy-efficient home that’s ready to handle the summer heat. Not only will these tips keep your home cool, but they’ll also help lower your energy bills, giving you more peace of mind as the temperatures climb.

Preview for June: Outdoor Safety and Summer Projects

June is the perfect time to focus on outdoor safety and tackle those summer projects. Next month, we’ll share tips for maintaining decks, checking for pests, and creating an outdoor space that’s as safe as it is enjoyable. Along with seasonal advice, we’ll include energy efficiency tips to help you stay cool and save on utility costs. Whether it’s preventing mosquito bites or inspecting your grill for safety, our June blog will help you make the most of summer. Stay tuned!