(BPT) – When the temperatures start going up, so do your energy bills. If you’re looking for ways to save energy and keep your house cooler at the same time, there are a number of strategies you can use that will save you money and make you and your family more comfortable all summer long.
1. Get smart about air conditioning
Cool your home using the latest smart technology. LG Electronics’ smart window and portable room air conditioners are a great option to beat the summer heat, as they deliver up to 40% more energy efficiency than the minimum Energy Star requirement. Unlike traditional room air conditioners that turn on full blast and then shut off completely to cool a room, LG’s new Dual Inverter Compressor(TM) technology adjusts its speed constantly to maintain desired temperature levels — saving energy and reducing your energy bill. They have options for just about any room size, from portable units like the LG LP1419IVSM that can cool an area up to 800 square feet, to window units like the LW2217IVSM that cool areas from 800 to 1,300 square feet.
For even more energy efficiency, LG’s room air conditioners allow for remote control through their SmartThinQ mobile app from anywhere, so you can start or stop cooling, change the mode or set temperatures using your smartphone. It also works with the Google Assistant and Amazon Alexa, so you can change your air conditioner settings with voice commands at home.
2. Block the sun
It may seem obvious, but the heat of the sun each day is what can make rooms in your house unbearably hot. Take a look at the window treatments you currently have, starting with the ones that see the most sunlight during the day. Using effective blinds, shades, shutters or curtains can help shield especially south-facing rooms from getting overly hot. Likewise, smart landscaping outside those windows can also help. Consider planting trees and shrubs strategically in your yard to help shade your home, which can also help shelter your house from harsh winter winds. Effective planting can be a great long-term aid in keeping your home cooler. A good landscaping consultant may be able to help you develop a plan.
3. Keep hot air out, cool air in
Just as you want to keep out cold air in the winter, it’s a good idea to check all your windows, doors and insulation for their ability to keep hot air out and cooled air in. Replacing old, leaky windows or using caulk to seal up drafty spots can be a very effective energy saver in the summer as well as the winter. A professional energy audit conducted by your energy company can help you find leaks that may add up to a lot of wasted energy. Then you can develop a plan to replace or repair any windows, doors or areas of insulation where you are losing the most cooled air in the summer.
4. Turn off what you’re not using
You’d be amazed how much energy you can save just by consistently turning off all the lights and other electronics when they are not being used. It’s also a good idea to replace your old lightbulbs — which produce heat — with LED bulbs, which are both cooler and use less power.
5. Use appliances strategically
Avoid heating up the entire house by not using your oven on hot days. Instead, cook with your microwave, on the stovetop, using a toaster oven or grilling food outdoors. Run the large appliances such as your clothes washer, dryer and dishwasher during off-peak hours, like during the evening.
All of these approaches can help you save tons of energy as well as money, and will keep you and your family cooler throughout the summer. Looking for a new air conditioner before temps heat up? Visit www.lg.com.
