Cool for the Summer

Cool for the SummerI run hot. On a recent flight, after politely asking the flight attendant if he could lower the cabin temperature, he asked if I was “going through the change”. I told him the answer was whatever it needed to be in order to cool off the plane. Given my temperature sensitivity, I probably shouldn’t be living in Phoenix, but calling this place home for so many years has helped me learn some tricks to keeping cool. As it relates to our homes, staying cool for the summer is easy, just think cool colors, like green and blue:

Think Green:

  • Turn down the Water Heater: If you’re trying to stay cool, you probably don’t need a scalding hot shower. Water heaters account for up to 18% of a home’s energy usage. Turning yours down to a recommended 120ᵒF will help offset increased energy usage with the air conditioning running.
  • Get a Smart Thermostat: Save money and energy by using a smart thermostat. Nest claims that its “learning” thermostat saves an average $131 to $145 per household per year by helping families save 10% to 12% on heating and 15% on cooling. These devices save because not only are they programmable to your schedule, but they also learn and adapt to patterns in your energy usage.

  • Turn off Appliances: The Department of Energy has estimated that appliances plugged in but not in use waste between 5% and 8% of a single family home’s annual energy usage. Saving energy seems to be a theme, but the focus here is on staying cool. Many of your energy-hogging appliances give off heat while turned on or even just plugged in.

  • Heat Control Window Film: There are many options on the market for heat control window films that block UV light and help reduce heat transfer through your windows. These films have the added benefit of helping preserve carpets, draperies, and wood flooring that can fade with prolonged exposure to direct sunlight.

Think Blue (as in water):

Learn More About eUnify

Tags: community link summer pool pass

Share this: