energy wise ■
conditioner in this climate, you can expect your electric bill to increase as the temperature rises. While there’s not a lot you can do to change our weather, there are some relatively easy home improvements you can make that will keep your home cooler and reduce your AC costs at the same time.
An Action Plan For Your Air Conditioner W
BY JOHN DRAKE COOPERATIVE ENERGY ADVISOR
e live in southeast Oklahoma where summers are hot and humid. If you run an air
First, take a few minutes to inspect your home, then prepare to take action. As you plan your improvements, remember that Choctaw Electric offers low-interest loans that will cover the costs of nearly all of these suggestions. You will find loan applications and details on the CEC website. Also, you can use your Co-op Connections card to save money on heating and air service from participating local companies. Visit
www.choctawelectric. coop for details on loans and a list of Co-op Connections businesses.
What type of roofing is installed on your home? Dark colored roofing absorbs a lot of heat from the sun, which means more hot air in your attic and living space.
Action: The next time you roof your home, use white or light-colored shingles. If you live in a mobile home,
install a reflective white roof coating over your existing metal roof.
How much attic insulation is installed in your home? Attic insulation slows the heat flow from the sun. It also slows heat flow out of your home in the winter.
Action: If your attic has less than six inches of insulation, add more insulation to total at least 12 inches.
Do you have shade over your south- and west-facing windows? Bare windows allow the sun to pour into your home. Shade reduces this overheating.
Action: Install awnings, sunscreens, or curtains over windows that receive the most sun.
ENERGY EFFICIENCY Tip of the Month
Lighting accounts for about 13 percent of an average household’s electric bill—cut costs by choosing new lightbulbs with increased output and longevity. Some cost more up front, but prices are dropping as technology advances. Options include color, brightness, and even dimming and multi-way functions. Combining lights with automatic sensors can cut costs further.
--NRECA’S COOPERATIVE RESEARCH NETWORK
Are there leaves or other debris built up on the grilles surrounding the outdoor unit of your air conditioner? This can reduce the airflow over the condenser coil and lower the efficiency of your system.
Action: Use water and a stiff brush to remove any debris from the outdoor unit. Cut back any bushes that could slow airflow into the unit.
When did you last have your central air conditioner serviced? Air conditioners need to be periodically cleaned and tuned.
Action: Have a professional inspect and tune your system. Be sure they check the refrigerant charge and airflow.
How well are your ducts sealed? Duct leaks can allow cool air to leak out into your attic or crawl space, or they can draw hot air and moisture into your home.
Action: Seal the seams in your ducts with duct mastic. Don’t use “duct tape” since it tends to come loose.
John Drake is your co-op energy use specialist. For questions about your energy usage or how to save energy, please contact John Drake or Mark Zachary at 800-780-6486, ext. 233.
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