You don't have to be a rocket scientist to save energy and keep cool this summer. Here are some reminders.
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Don’t be a blow hard (it’s a waste of energy!) Running your AC all night or when you’re out wastes energy. Set your thermostat to cool just when you really need it, and to a reasonable temperature—72-75° F is sufficient for most people.
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Nuke it. Use your microwave to cook. Turning on the stove for small meals wastes energy and heats up your home.
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Decorate! Hang light colored window coverings. They reflect heat and light.
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Cover up. Keep window coverings closed on south- and west-facing windows during the day to keep temperatures from rising inside.
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Mind your ‘fridge. Clean coils help a refrigerator run more efficiently. The smoother it runs, the less heat it will release into your home.
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Turn over a new leaf and grow house plants. According to NASA, they clean the air by converting pollutants into plant food. Clean air will make your home feel fresher.
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Don’t be a dim bulb! Use compact fluorescent lamps (CFLs) where appropriate. Regular lamps release about 90% of their energy as heat. CFLs use more of their energy to create light, not to heat your home.
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Ok - be a blow hard! Install an EnergyStar ceiling fan. Air movement makes people feel cooler
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Give your house new clothes (so you shed less.) Insulate your walls and attic to keep hot air outside where it belongs!
Additional ideas can be found at:
http://www.sustainlane.com/reviews/putting-the-freeze-on-your-energy-bills-this-summer/4Y29S12CCPPB3NZTL2TXPLQN4VYD