One of the most effective ways to reduce your energy bill is to replace old appliances with...
While Earth Day is in the rearview mirror for the year, the annual celebration on April 22nd inspires us all to take a more thoughtful, intentional approach to managing our environmental impact. The weeks that follow are a great time to talk about how you can keep your home cool and comfortable throughout the upcoming summer months without placing a heavy burden on the planet, your electrical system, or your bank account.
Ceiling Fans to the Rescue
You know a ceiling fan can help circulate air in a stuffy room, but what you might not know is just how vital a role it can play in keeping your home comfortable without requiring the energy that is used by an HVAC system that is constantly running. By circulating air within a room, seemingly simple ceiling fans give you the opportunity to raise your thermostat setting about 4°F without sacrificing comfort. In cooler evening hours, fans can be used to bring fresh, cool air from outside and further reduce the need for air conditioning, ensuring your comfort is not compromised.
These aren't the only eco-friendly pro tips for beating the heat. Here are a few more strategies for staying cool, comfortable, and conscious of the planet:
- Use Programmable Thermostats: These thermostats allow you to set your air conditioning to turn off during the hours you are not home and cool down before you return.
- Keep Blinds Closed: Sunlight can significantly increase the temperature inside your house. Keeping blinds or curtains closed during the hottest parts of the day can keep your rooms cooler without the need for extra air conditioning.
- Regular Maintenance: Ensure your cooling system and your electrical system are regularly maintained on an annual basis in order to keep them running efficiently and safely.
The Power of ENERGY STAR® Certified HVAC Units
While Wilcox Electric doesn't sell or install HVAC units, we excel at getting your home's electrical system squared away in preparation for an installation. When choosing a new system, the ENERGY STAR® Certified option isn't just another choice on the market, it's a sound investment. These units are meticulously designed to use less energy than standard models, significantly reducing your household's carbon footprint and helping to slash energy bills. ENERGY STAR® Certified HVAC systems meet stringent energy- efficiency guidelines set by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), ensuring they consume less power while maintaining optimal cooling performance.
Ensuring Your Electrical System Can Handle the Heat
Before upgrading to an ENERGY STAR® Certified HVAC unit or installing new ceiling fans, it is essential to ensure that your home's electrical system is up to the task. An outdated or inadequately prepared electrical system can struggle to handle the demands of modern, energy-efficient cooling technologies. This is where Wilcox Electric comes in. We specialize in assessing and upgrading electrical panels and systems to ensure they are ready to safely support your earth-friendly, energy-efficient home improvements, giving you peace of mind in your choice of service provider.
As we look forward to the warmer months, let's take inspiration from Earth Day to make energy-efficient choices that keep our homes comfortable and our planet healthy. If you're considering upgrading your cooling systems or ensuring your electrical setup is prepared, contact Wilcox Electric for expert advice and professional service.
