We have once again reached the summer season in sunny Arizona, and there are a few things you should know as a homeowner living in the Valley of the Sun. So, I decided to put together a few ways to decrease energy costs during the Arizona summer.
Power bills are sure to rise during the summer months. Naturally, our need for power increases as we look to cool our homes during the peak hours of electricity use. Fortunately, there are a couple of simple things you can do to help keep your energy usage under control during the summer months.
1. Run Pool Pumps at Nighttime.
Many of us could not survive the summer around here if it weren’t for our swimming pools. The pump on your pool requires more running time during the summer, so set it up to run at night when power is less expensive.
And, as always, please be careful to keep your pool secured. A physical barrier is very important around your pool, as it can be a lifesaver when a child finds his or her way into the backyard without supervision. Never block open the gate, and always be sure all access to the swimming pool is secured at all times.
2. Inspect Weather Strips at Home Entry Points.
Check your doors by inspecting around the edges for light coming in from the outside. If you can see sunlight, outdoor heat is coming in as well. You can replace the weather stripping on your own by inserting it into a slot cut around the perimeter of the frame. Simply remove the old and insert the new weather stripping for a better seal.
3. Create Air Flow in Your Attic.
Attic ventilation is another way to reduce the heat in your home during the day. There are several different ways to accomplish this. For example, solar-powered attic fans are very simple to install and extremely efficient.
4. Don’t Use Major Appliances if You Don’t Have to.
When possible, always use your major appliances during the evening hours or on weekends. Electricity is usually less expensive during the evening hours. Also, some appliances create heat inside your home, becoming a burden on your home’s AC unit during the day.
Use these tips to decrease energy costs during the Arizona summer and to create a safe and comfortable home environment. If you want an expert opinion on how a potential home will function in the summer, I would be happy to perform an inspection. Contact Hunter Home Inspections to set up an appointment.
