Staying Cool Without Breaking the Bank

Article By: Dr. Joan Bradshaw
University of Florida/IFAS Extension Service Director

As our Florida temperatures being to rise, so does the cost of cooling our homes. The urge to crank up the AC is irresistible but there are other methods of keeping the temperature down and your utility bill too. Remember, the key to keeping cool is to minimize sources of heat and remove the built-up heat from inside the home. Before you reach for the thermostat, consider some of the following simple actions.

Fans and Ceiling Fans

If you're looking for ways to beat the heat, a ceiling fan can be a great investment for your home. This one appliance can make a room feel 6 or 7 degrees cooler, and even the most power-hungry fan costs less than $10 a month to use if you keep it on for 12 hours a day. Good fans make it possible for you to raise your thermostat setting and save on air-conditioning costs. Fans don't use much energy, but when air is circulating, it feels much cooler. Ceiling fans are best, but a good portable fan can be very effective as well.

Keep in mind that even mild air movement of 1 mph can make you feel three or four degrees cooler. Also make sure your ceiling fan is turned for summer - you should feel the air blown downward.

Shades, drapes, or blinds

Install white window shades, drapes, or blinds to reflect heat away from the house. Close blinds, shades and draperies facing the sun (east-facing windows in the morning and west-facing windows in the afternoon) to keep the sun's heat out and help fans or air conditioners cool more efficiently. Always remember that the best way to keep your home cool is to keep the heat out.

Internal Heat

The most common sources of internal heat gain are; appliances, electronic devices, and lighting. Be aware from where the heat is coming. Unless you absolutely need them, turn off incandescent lights and heat-generating appliances. Replace incandescent bulbs with compact fluorescents; they produce the same light but use a fifth the energy and heat.

You should also try to avoid heat-generating activities, such as cooking, on hot days or during the hottest part of the day. If you are cooking, use your range fan to vent the hot air out of your house. By reducing the amount of heat in your home, you will have to use less energy to cool it. For more information, contact Citrus County Extension at 352-527-5700.

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