Beat the Heat: Home Improvements for A Cool, Cheap Summer

Summer is a time for enjoying lazy days and the outdoors. But no matter what your climate, chances are that you're starting to really feel the heat of summer by now. For homeowners this time of year is not only known for its promotion of lazing about or grilling out on the patio; it's also known for a hike in utility costs.

Beat the heat this summer © wenani ' Fotolia.com

Fortunately there are some ways to beat the heat and make your home more energy efficient.

Watch Your Windows

Your home's windows aren't just there for providing natural light and a pretty view of your manicured backyard: they should also help keep the heating and cooling in and the elements out. By upgrading your home's windows to more energy efficient models you'll not only ensure that your heating and cooling is kept inside where it belongs but also that the heat from the outdoors stays out of your home.

Double pane windows are designed with just this concept in mind. Their composition is just as their name implies: two pane sections of glass are separated by a thin space filled with gas or air. You can also opt for slightly tinted double pane windows which provide even better efficiency or install solar blocking screens to help make your old windows a bit more efficient. For more information on energy savings and double pane windows check out Energy Star.

Energy Efficient HVAC Units

The biggest reason for the great summer utility rate hike is not due to children being out of school and leaving lights on all day. It has to do with running your home's air conditioning unit at a comfortable level. If your central heating and air unit is over ten years old chances are that it isn't running with the efficiency that a newer model could offer. Today's units have been designed to provide the maximum comfort with minimal energy expenditures, thereby reducing your carbon footprint and utility bills without sacrificing your family's comfort. Click here information on energy efficient air conditioning units.

Summer is a great season for spending time with family and friends, but doing so in an uncomfortably warm home takes all of the fun out of it. Fortunately by implementing some of the above changes to your home's systems you can increase comfort without bankrupting yourself.