Summer is here! With the kids home from school, keeping your home cool during the summer could put a dent in your wallet. However, there are a few things that you can do in order to keep your home cool this summer in a smart way.

Windows: Windows allow a lot of natural light in which is great, but they also allow a lot of heat to come in. Possible air leaks could be fixed by sealing and caulking around windows and doors. To combat heat transfer through the glass, you can apply UV protection film for windows that receive direct sunlight.

Cooking: Your kitchen is one of the biggest heat sources within your house. Sometimes it’s better to cook during the cooler parts of the day. While cooking, turn on you exhaust fan to allow the hot air to leave your kitchen.

Incandescent Lights: Incandescent lights work by heating filament within the bulb. Compared to fluorescent and LED lighting, Incandescent lights put out a large amount of heat. On top of that, they also require more electricity as well.

Smart Air Conditioner Use: There are a list of things to keep in mind to make sure that your A/C unit is being utilized at it’s fullest. Inspect air ducts for leaks and improper insulation. Make sure that the return air grille is not blocked.Also, replacing your filters in a timely matter will allow your A/C to run correctly and more efficiently.

Allow Correct Airflow: It is important to make sure that the rooms in your house you wish to keep cool have correct airflow. Closed doors, blocked/closed A/C vents are a recipe for a hot room. If there are rooms you wish to keep cool, adding a fan will also improve the airflow in your home.

Electronic Equipment: Electronic equipment produces heat even when not in use. Unplug any electronic devices that are not used on a daily basis. Turn off televisions and computer monitors while they are not in use. Also making sure that electronics have enough space for proper ventilation will decrease the amount of heat that is put out by your electronics.