Improving energy efficiency is a concern for homeowners year-round, as it helps keep bills down and reduces environmental impact. However, the summer months are notorious for driving energy consumption, as residents in warm climates have no choice but to crank their AC units to stay comfortable.

Even if you run your system constantly in the summer, there are ways to use less energy when the heat sets in. Below are five of these energy-saving methods.

5 Clever Ways to Improve Summertime Energy Efficiency

1. Keep the Curtains Drawn

The sun is stronger than ever during the summer, so the darker your home is, the cooler it will be. Keep the curtains drawn during the daytime to minimize the amount of sunlight that seeps in.

2. Get Grilling

Using the oven and cooktop minimally will also keep your home cooler. When you turn your oven or stovetop on, it heats up the kitchen, forcing your AC to work harder. Grilling is a great alternative to cooking indoors on particularly hot days.

3. Clean or Replace Air Filters

When air filters accumulate dust, pet hair, and other debris, they reduce your cooling system’s energy efficiency. In other words, the system has to use more energy to circulate air. To reduce energy use and keep your cooling bills down, clean or replace your air filters every 90 days—or more frequently if you have pets.

4. Check for Air Leaks

To prevent cool air from leaking and hot air from entering your home, check your windows and doors for drafts, and perform fixes as needed. If you have an attic, check to make sure the insulation is intact.   

5. Coat Your Roof

Even the best efforts to improve your home’s energy efficiency will stop short if your roof is absorbing heat. If you haven’t already done so, consider a reflective roof coating to direct the sun’s rays away from your dwelling. This home improvement will keep your living space cooler while bringing energy bills down.

As a leading roofing contractor, Surface Shield Roofing Company in Honolulu, HI, has the tools, materials, and experience to outfit your home with a high-quality, energy-saving roof. You can learn more about how their coatings and materials raise energy efficiency by visiting their website. To reach one of their knowledgeable team members, call (808) 739-9599 or keep in touch by liking them on Facebook.