One way to save money this summer is by learning how to battle heat build up, or heat gain, in your St. Louis home. By taking a few steps you can minimize the amount of heat that gets trapped inside. This trapped heat can cause your AC to work harder and less efficiently. Here are a few ideas to help minimize this problem:
Check your insulation
Poor insulation is one of the main reasons for heat gain. Properly maintained and up to date insulation will prevent hot air from getting in and cold air from getting out. Where there are leaks, there is inefficiency.
Check your windows
Windows need proper insulation and installation as well and are a common factor in inefficient cooling in the home. This is similar to your ducts. Where there are leaks there is a loss of efficiency causing hot or cold air to move back and forth.
Consider repainting
Dark colors can absorb up to 90 percent of the sun’s energy. Reflective coatings for the roof of your home are another solution for this problem. Consider repainting your home if your paint is too dark.
Shading your home
Rather than painting, blocking the sun from your home can keep out 90 percent of radiant energy, thus preventing as some heat build up in your home.
Appliance Use
Lastly, sparingly use your oven and other heat producing appliances. Why create unnecessary heat? Grill for dinner! Let your hair air dry. Keep your energy use to a minimum.
Contact the experts!
