Saving on Air Conditioning in Southern California
August 24, 2016 2:37 pm
As a part of Southern California, Palos Verdes is known for sunny, hot days. Many homeowners wish to turn to their air conditioning to beat the heat, but this often results in higher energy bills. Whether you want to reduce your bill or your home isn’t equipped with an air conditioning unit, relax with a few of these easy and affordable home chilling techniques.
Set the Thermostat Higher
When at home, set the thermostat to 78 degrees. Set it higher if you’ll be away for the day. If you’re feeling the heat, don’t sweat it—it can take a few days for the body and mind to adjust to this new normal. Try it out for at least a few days.
Shade Your Home
Strategically planting trees around your home can help block direct sunlight, which will naturally keep the house cooler. Window treatments such as solar mesh screens, window films, or even drapes can also help block UV rays from getting into the home and heating up a space.
Work the Fans
Break out the box fans or invest in whole-house ceiling fans to inexpensively cool down whatever space you are inhabiting. Box fans can be moved from room to room. Ceiling fans can usually be changed to rotate counter-clockwise in the summer for a cooler feel. Open windows far away from fans to help develop a breeze through the house.
Cook Outdoors
Using the stove or oven inside your home will make it warmer, so it’s best to do this at night if at all. An even better idea is to break out the grill and cook outdoors, keeping the extra heat away from your living space.
Open a Window, Change the Sheets, and Relax Where It’s Cooler
If the air is cooler at night, open windows during the nighttime. Change your bedsheets for an even cooler feel, or simply hang out in the basement where it’s naturally colder. For more information on how to save on air conditioning in Palos Verdes, contact one of our Levine Homes Real Estate Agents at 310-796-9088.
