As we enter peak summer heat here in Central Virginia, with long days and rising temperatures, keeping your home cool and comfortable becomes a top priority.
For most of us, kicking the AC into high gear is the answer. But this can lead to higher energy bills and an increased environmental impact, not to mention wear and tear on your HVAC system. Fortunately, there are several ways to make your home more energy efficient during the summer months. Whether you’re looking for quick fixes or planning a major remodel, here’s how you can prepare your home to beat the heat sustainably and effectively.
Bigger Renovation Plans for Long-Term Energy Efficiency
If you’re considering major renovations to your home, consider these energy-efficient home upgrades that have long-term, lasting benefits for your home, your comfort and the environment.
Conduct a Home Energy Audit
Sometimes the best first step is to have a professional home energy audit done that can identify areas where your home is losing energy and recommend specific improvements. This comprehensive assessment can guide you in making targeted upgrades that will have the most significant impact on your energy efficiency.
Upgrade to Energy-Efficient Windows
Consider replacing old, single-pane windows with double or triple-pane options. Energy-efficient windows with low-emissivity (low-E) coatings can significantly reduce heat transfer, keeping your home cooler in the summer and warmer in the winter. Plus new windows can improve the look and style of your home.
Invest in Solar Panels
Solar panels can drastically reduce your energy bills and carbon footprint. Depending on your location and the orientation of your roof, solar panels can generate enough electricity to power your home, especially during the sunny summer months. Work with a licensed contractor and/or roofing specialist who is experienced in solar panel installation to ensure proper, safe and warrantied work.Outdoor living in Central Virginia is a year-round activity, so make the most of it with your home, whether that’s a two-story deck, patio, pool or porch. Whatever way you go, you won’t regret the investment in your home’s expanded outdoor living space.
Install a Cool Roof
Cool roofs are designed to reflect more sunlight and absorb less heat than standard roofs. Materials such as reflective coatings, tiles, or shingles can help keep your home cooler and reduce the need for air conditioning. While cool roofs have long been a thing in commercial construction, they are now making their way into residential products as well, with plenty of aesthetic options for homeowners.
Enhance Your Landscaping
Strategically planting trees and shrubs around your home can provide natural shade and reduce the heat absorbed by your house. Consider planting deciduous trees on the south and west sides of your home to block summer sun while allowing winter sunlight to warm your home. But be careful not to plant trees too close to any structures, as they can cause roof, siding or even foundation damage as they grow. A professional landscape architect or company can help you make the best decisions for your region and your home.
Simple Tips and Tricks for Immediate Impact
Even if you’re not planning a big remodel anytime soon, there are small and simple steps you can take to reduce energy consumption while also keeping your home comfortable.
Optimize Your Thermostat Settings
Investing in a programmable thermostat can lead to significant savings. Set your thermostat a few degrees higher when you’re away from home, and lower it to a comfortable temperature when you’re there. Some modern thermostats even learn your schedule and adjust settings automatically.
Seal and Insulate
Even small gaps around windows or doors can let in lots of warm (or cold) air that can affect the comfort inside your home. Having weatherstripping installed or using caulk to seal around windows can help. You may also want to talk to a contractor about whether your home’s insulation is in good repair and that there’s enough of it where it needs to be. Insulation does just as much to keep your home cool as it does to keep it warm.
Make the Most of Ceiling Fans
Ceiling fans are a great way to circulate air and make rooms feel cooler. Ensure your fans are set to spin counterclockwise during the summer months, creating a wind-chill effect that can make it feel up to 4 degrees cooler.
Close Blinds and Curtains
During the hottest parts of the day, keep blinds and curtains closed to block out direct sunlight. This simple step can reduce the indoor temperature by several degrees and decrease the load on your air conditioning system.
Switch to Energy-Efficient Lighting
Traditional incandescent bulbs generate a lot of heat in addition to using more energy. Switching to LED or CFL bulbs reduces heat output and energy consumption, contributing to a cooler home and lower electricity bills.
Don’t Have a Hot House Summer
By implementing these simple tips and considering more extensive upgrades, you can enjoy a cooler, more comfortable home throughout the summer while reducing your energy consumption. Keep in mind that energy efficiency comes in small and big steps, and even little changes can lead to significant impacts over time – financially and environmentally.
Happy summer, and here’s to a cooler, more sustainable home!