Summer is just around the corner. Soon, we'll be putting our A/Cs to the test to beat the heat. Even if your unit is currently functioning well, there are factors that can contribute to your home feeling warmer and stuffier than it should. Let's examine some common reasons why air conditioning fails to perform at its best and outline what you can do to make it better.
Invest in New Home Siding
Your home's siding does far more than just look pretty. It also offers a protective barrier against the elements, including the heat and cold. Something durable, such as James Hardie, can go a long way towards saving money and improving upon your comfort. If you want your house to look great outside and feel great inside, new home siding is an excellent investment.
Assess Your Windows
Older windows, and cheaper windows, can contribute to a loss of energy. Today, modern windows are built to keep homes well-insulated. Consider replacing your windows both to refresh the look of your property and also to decrease your monthly energy bill. There are many styles of window to suit any home, including some dramatic types of window like bow windows. Bow windows can even open up the floor plan of your home, though they do require some structural adjustments!
If your home isn't too warm, but is just too stuffy, you can take a look at screened windows and windows that let a lot of air through. Consider slats along your windows that will let you open up your windows to the breeze. It'll also help air quality. Many people don't realize that air quality is actually worse inside of a house than it is outside of it!
Check Your Doors
Exterior doors that are ill-fitted to the frame can let warm air in and cool air out. Consider replacing the frame, adding in measures to plug leaks, or replacing your door for a more durable one.
Over time, wooden exterior doors can warp. Metal doors can become scratched and dented. It's also possible that you could fix your door just by installing some weather-stripping around it. It all depends on how serious the issue is, but a professional can help you assess the damage.
And it isn't just the exterior doors you should check. Make sure that you check the door leading from the home to the garage, too. Not only could you be losing heat there, but a flimsy door in your garage could be a security risk.
Get a Smart Thermostat
Smart programmable thermostats can help you save by adjusting to your lifestyle. These thermostats will determine the optimal settings for your HVAC system based on both your electrical use and your preferred comfort levels. Additionally, they can be programmed to turn the HVAC system off when you don't need it. Imagine an HVAC system that only turns itself on when you're heading back home from work, or a thermostat that automatically turns itself into "power save" mode when you walk out the door.
Install Ceiling Fans
More air circulation will help you feel cooler and lessen the need to bump down the thermostat. You can install ceiling fans in most areas that already have a lighting fixture. You can also install them elsewhere, but it tends to be easier to replace existing lighting fixtures. Ceiling fans are also a great way to liven up the look of a room, and many of them are very attractive.
Put in New Insulation
Blown in insulation into your attic could mean all the difference when it comes to temperature escaping. You can also add foam insulation to the walls of your home, though that's a little more of an extensive process. Discuss different insulations and their R-values with your contractor to discover the best options for you. You may find that new insulation isn't as expensive as you think!
It's about to get hot out there. If you've got problems with your insulation, it's the right time to start renovating. If you’re ready, reach out today.
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