It’s summer time and depending on where you live, it is HOT and the air conditioning is on blast. This is both expensive and harmful to the environment. “84% of U.S. homes use air conditioners, we can all save money by using them less; after all, the typical U.S. home spends 17% of its annual energy bill on cooling – about $375.”
Stay cool with cold summertime drinks
So how can you stay cool and eco-friendly without using an air conditioner? Here are some easy tips:
1. Close your windows: Open your windows only at night (which allows cooler air to circulate) and keep windows closed during the day. Be creative and use house plants and other things around the house to block the bright sun from shining through your windows. Also, be sure to consider planting trees in spots you know will block out sunlight.
2. Ceiling Fans: Energy Star ceiling fans use 50% less energy than most models. Remember to make sure the fan is blowing down and to turn it off when not in the room. Fans can make a huge difference if angled properly.
3. Eat Cold Meals: Stay away from hot, rich foods and eat cold, refreshing foods like watermelon, fruit, cold soup or light chilled pasta salads. Drinking water and cold beverages throughout the day also helps.
4. Shut off the Lights: The more lights you have on, the more heated your house will feel. Energy Star rated light bulbs produce 75% less heat so consider this when replacing bulbs. Also unplug electronics not in use.
5. Cold Showers: Sounds like a no-brainer but the more often you cool your body down with a cold shower, the less often you will become overheated.
Consider all these tips next time you reach to crank up the AC. Stay cool and green this summer while saving money and energy!
Tags: air conditioning, eco, energy, Energy Star, green, summer