Preparing for Summer Heat: Tips to Stay Cool and Save Energy
As temperatures rise with the onset of summer, it’s important for Iowans to know how to keep their homes cool, reduce electricity usage, and stay safe during potential power outages. Here are some effective strategies and tips sourced from government resources to help residents beat the heat.
Keeping Your Home Cool
Block Out Heat: A significant amount of unwanted heat enters homes through windows. Using blinds, curtains, and shades can prevent this. Additionally, installing low-emissivity (Low-E) films on windows can help reflect heat and keep interiors cooler.
Seal Leaks: Ensure that doors and windows are properly sealed to maintain cool air inside and prevent hot air from seeping in. Weatherstripping is a practical and cost-effective solution.
Limit Heat-Producing Appliances: Minimize the use of ovens, dishwashers, and other heat-generating appliances during the hottest parts of the day. Opt for alternatives like microwaves, slow cookers, or outdoor grills, and use appliances during cooler times such as early morning or late evening.
Use Fans Wisely: Ceiling fans can create a breeze that makes you feel cooler, especially in low-humidity conditions. Ensure that ceiling fans rotate counterclockwise in the summer to blow air downward. Turn off fans when leaving a room, as they cool people, not spaces.
Whole House Fans: These fans can help reduce indoor temperatures by a few degrees when used during cooler parts of the day or at night. They work by expelling warm air and drawing in cooler outside air. However, avoid using them simultaneously with air conditioners.
Reducing Electricity Usage
Thermostat Management: Set your thermostat to 78 degrees Fahrenheit when at home, and increase the temperature a few degrees when away. Using a programmable or smart thermostat can help manage temperatures more efficiently and reduce energy costs.
Regular Maintenance: Keep cooling systems such as air conditioners and heat pumps well-maintained by cleaning or replacing filters regularly. This ensures they operate efficiently and effectively.
Energy-Efficient Appliances: Invest in ENERGY STAR-rated appliances, which consume less energy and offer better efficiency. Ensure proper installation by qualified professionals to maximize performance.
Staying Safe During Power Outages
Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water to avoid dehydration. Avoid beverages with caffeine or alcohol, as they can contribute to dehydration.
Keep Cool Without Power: Close windows, doors, blinds, and curtains to retain cool air inside. Use battery-powered fans if available, and consider spending time in cooler parts of your home, like basements.
Seek Cooler Locations: If your home becomes too hot, seek refuge in public places like libraries, shopping malls, or designated cooling centers. Local authorities can provide information on the nearest cooling centers.
Emergency Supplies: Prepare an emergency kit with essential items such as water, non-perishable food, medications, and a battery-powered or hand-crank radio to stay informed about the weather and emergency instructions.
By following these strategies, Iowans can stay cool, use less electricity, and remain safe during the hot summer months. For more detailed tips and resources, visit the Department of Energy’s Energy Saver and Ready.gov websites.
