BEATING the heat this summer without blowing the budget could be as simple as following some simple steps for cooling the home.
According to Energy Australia, people don’t have to blow hundreds of dollars on air conditioners to keep cool.
Paul Mayors of Energy Australia said keeping cool was easy and that a few simple steps could make a big difference.
Mr Mayors said these steps included using fans, shading and insulating the family home, and running air conditioners efficiently.
“Staying cool over summer does not have to be expensive,” he said.
“In fact, a four person family can cut up to 10 per cent off their electricity bill and up to a tonne of carbon in emissions, just by being more efficient with heating and cooling.”
Mr Mayors said keeping the heat out of the house was always the best approach.
“A lot of heat is gained from direct sun on windows, especially those facing west. So shading them with external blinds or trees can be an effective way to keep your home cooler and more comfortable,” he said.
Mr Mayors also said fans should always be the first port of call for cooling efficiently, especially as running ceiling fans cost the same as running a light bulb.
“And, for those days you do want to use your air conditioner, set it between 23 to 26 degrees for the most efficient results,” he said.
“By planning ahead and looking for a range of cooling options you can make sure the temperature inside your home remains comfortable, while avoiding the post-summer power bill spike.”
Five simples steps for cooling your home this summer:
1. Use fans – pedestal and ceiling fans will keep your home cool and cost just $4 a year to run compared to air conditioners which can cost more than $200 a year.
2. Shade your home – external blinds and well-placed trees can stop the sun from heating your home and keep the temperature down inside.
3. Catch the breeze – if a breeze is blowing, leave your security doors closed and open the main doors and windows to take advantage of nature’s air conditioning.
4. Insulate the ceiling – ceiling insulation can reduce indoor temperatures by as much as 10 degrees in the summer and can cut cooling costs by up to 40 per cent.
5. Run air conditioning efficiently – to run your air conditioning the most efficiently, keep the temperature to between 23 and 26 degrees, and close the doors and windows to the area you are trying to cool.
