Five Top Tips for Energy Spring-Cleaning

With spring-cleaning around the corner, Environment Virginia, Congressman Jim Moran, and the BlueGreen Alliance came together today to outline top tips for home and business owners to clean up their energy use and protect our environment.

Report

Environment Virginia Research & Policy Center

Five Top Tips for Energy Spring-Cleaning

 1. Install ceiling fans

If you use air conditioning, a ceiling fan will allow you to raise the thermostat setting about 4°F with no reduction in comfort. In temperate climates, or during moderately hot weather, ceiling fans may allow you to avoid using your air conditioner altogether. 

2. Cover your windows

You can prevent heat gain through your windows with appropriate coverings like drapes, blinds, and awnings. Window awnings can reduce solar heat gain in the summer by up to 77 percent. When completely closed and lowered on a sunny window, highly reflective blinds can reduce heat gain by around 45 percent. Studies demonstrate that medium-colored draperies with white-plastic backings can reduce heat gains by 33 percent.

3. Clean and maintain your air-conditioner

Keeping the filter clean can lower your air conditioner’s energy consumption by 5 to 15 percent. You can clean or replace the filter yourself. You can also clean the coil and keep the area around the condenser free from debris. You can also hire a professional when your unit needs more than regular maintenance.  

4. Use efficient lighting

CLF and LED light bulbs use less energy than traditional light bulbs.  Traditional light bulbs also warm up your house since 90 percent of the energy they use is given off as heat.

5. Seal leaks in your home

Seal cracks and openings to prevent warm air from leaking into your home.

http://energy.gov/energysaver/articles/spring-and-summer-energy-saving-tips