Beat the Heat Without Breaking the Bank

(NC) When summer reaches its hottest stretch, staying cool can feel like a full-time job. The air conditioner runs nonstop, but the house still feels warm and stuffy. During a heat wave, energy use—and costs—can rise quickly. A few thoughtful changes can help your home feel more comfortable while managing how much energy it uses.

To help homeowners stay cool and efficient this summer, Enbridge Gas Ontario has some practical tips:

• Help your air conditioner do less work.

  A clean AC filter makes a big difference. When you replace your filters regularly, your system doesn’t have to work as hard to cool your home. It’s also a good idea to have your air conditioner serviced by a qualified HVAC contractor to make sure everything’s running efficiently.

  If you have a central air conditioner, make sure the outdoor unit is free from grass, leaves and other debris. Clear airflow helps your system run efficiently and last longer.
• Keep the midday heat where it belongs: outside. Sunlight beaming through your windows can quickly warm up your home. Closing curtains or blinds during the hottest parts of the day helps block the sun’s hot rays and keeps indoor temperatures more comfortable without having to turn up the air conditioning.
• Skip the oven and fire up the barbecue. Using your oven while it’s hot out can increase the temperature in your kitchen and throughout your home. Instead, consider cooking dinner outside on a natural gas barbecue. You’ll keep extra heat out of the house while enjoying easy summer meals and a cooler kitchen.
• Take control of your temperature. A smart thermostat can help you stay comfortable while using energy more efficiently. You can set a schedule that cools your home when you’re there and eases off when you are away. Many models also let you adjust the temperature remotely, so you’re not cooling an empty house during the workday.

There are plenty of ways to stay comfortable and energy-smart this summer. You can find more tips to help your household save energy at enbridgegas.ca/ontario.

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