When you're away, focusing on preventing heat build-up is key to keeping your AC efficient and your home cool. Here's how to maintain a cooler home while you're out:
Strategies for Keeping Your Home Cool While Away
The goal is to minimize solar heat gain and retain any existing cool air:
- Close and Cover Windows:
- Block Sunlight: Use blackout curtains, blinds, or reflective window film, especially on west- and south-facing windows which receive the most direct sunlight during the hottest parts of the day. This prevents solar heat from entering your home.
- Close Windows Tightly: Ensure all windows are properly closed and sealed to prevent hot air from leaking in.
- Seal Doors and Drafts:
- Close Interior Doors: Closing doors to rooms you're not using can help concentrate the cooling effect in the areas you want to prioritize.
- Seal Drafts: Use weather stripping and caulk to seal gaps around doors and windows.
- Adjust Your Thermostat Strategically:
- Don't Turn It Off Completely: Turning the AC off completely can lead to a significant temperature increase, making it work harder and longer to cool down when you return.
- Raise the Temperature: Set the thermostat a few degrees higher than your usual setting (e.g., 80-85°F) to minimize energy consumption while still preventing excessive heat buildup. Consider a programmable or smart thermostat to automatically adjust the temperature based on your schedule.
- Utilize Fans:
- Ceiling Fans: Running ceiling fans (in a counter-clockwise direction during summer) can help circulate air and create a cooling breeze.
- Other Fans: Strategically placed box fans or oscillating fans can also help circulate air and even out the temperature throughout your home.
- Minimize Heat-Generating Activities Before Leaving:
- Avoid Cooking: Cooking indoors generates significant heat. Try to avoid using your oven or stove right before you leave.
- Turn Off Electronics: Electronics generate heat even when idle. Unplug or turn off computers, TVs, and other devices.
- Consider Smart Home Technology:
- Smart Thermostats: Control your AC remotely and schedule temperature adjustments based on your return time.
- Smart Shades/Blinds: Automatically adjust window coverings to block sunlight during peak hours.
By taking these steps, you can effectively minimize heat build-up and keep your home cooler while you're away, reducing the strain on your AC and saving energy.
