AHS Blog

My calendar says that summer isn’t here yet, but my thermometer says otherwise. In my part of the country, we’ve already had summer worthy temperatures that necessitate air conditioning with the promise of record highs just around the bend. While we can’t avoid using air conditioners completely, there are some things we can do to keep cooling needs and energy consumption to a minimum. Here are some suggestions for summertime savings:



• Keep your central air conditioning system properly maintained for maximum efficiency and a longer system life. Regular maintenance really does make a difference, both in the short term and long term. Read your manufacturer’s instructions, or call a professional for preventative maintenance.

• Install a programmable thermostat as soon as possible. This is one of the best ways to control temperatures in your home while conserving energy and keeping your family comfortable. A programmable thermostat will automatically lower and raise temperatures according to your household’s schedule so that you don’t have to remember to adjust the thermostat.

• If you have an older system, maybe it’s time to replace it with a newer, higher efficiency model. Look for models with SEER ratings of at least 13 or 14 and the ENERGY STAR label.

• For best results, your outdoor condensing unit should be in a shady spot if at all possible. If it isn’t and moving it isn’t practical, consider installing some shade plantings around it, but be sure to keep the unit free of leaves, sticks, or other debris.

• In hot weather, ceiling fans and attic fans can help cool your home and reduce air conditioning use.

• Close off any rooms that you don’t use and don’t need to cool.

• Turn the thermostat up two degrees. You probably won’t notice such a small difference, but even two degrees can make a big difference in your energy use and power bill.

• Close curtains or window treatments when the sun is streaming in from that direction.
• Take heavy blankets and comforters off your bed.


The next time you feel hot and are tempted to adjust the thermostat, fix yourself a cold drink like ice water or lemonade and sit down to drink it. Wait ten minutes and see if you still feel warm. Sometimes this simple step can cool you down sufficiently without changing the temperature inside your home.



Look around -- you may have a phantom stealing from you in your own home! That's because plugged-in appliances can draw small amounts of power even when they are turned off, known as phantom power usage. Individually, the amounts may seem insignificant but collectively this wasted power can add up over time to adversely impact the earth as well as your wallet. Some of the most common phantom power culprits include:



• Televisions
• DVD Players
• Stereos
• Computers
• Printers
• Small kitchen appliances (toasters, blenders, coffee makers, etc.
• Cell phone chargers


The solution is simple – unplug these items when they are not in use. When your cell phone battery is full, unplug the charger from the wall. After you've made coffee in the morning, unplug your coffee maker. Take care to shut down computer equipment according to manufacturer's instructions so that you don't damage data or the system. Power strips can sometimes make this easier by simply flipping the strip switch off instead of unplugging several items.

Start fighting the phantom in your home today!