Summer has finally arrived and anyone who has ever been here in August knows that it gets very hot in the Raleigh area. As temperatures rise, we will most definitely bask in the breeze of air conditioning. However, staying cool in the North Carolina heat has a steep price! So as the summer months are upon us, I have put together three ways for you to be greener this summer and hopefully cut down on your utility bills.
Air Out Attic Spaces
Attic spaces can accumulate heat and then transfer it to living areas below. This can increase your energy usage and hike up your electricity bill.
By using continuous eave and roof ridge vents you can create natural air flow through the attic. As air enters through the eave vents and moves out through the ridge vents, the heated air rises and ventilates the attic. In addition, lighter colored roof materials and reflective heat barriers on the underside of the roof can cut down on heat gain.
Optimize Your AC Systems
It’s very important to find the right AC unit for your home. If you choose something too large it will chill the room too quickly, and can leave the room a little uncomfortable. But if you get the right sized system for your home, it will run long enough to reach the desired temperature and clear the air of humidity. It will also not turn on and off as much!
If you have optimized your AC system then be sure to check for leaks in duct work joints, and around windows, doors, attic stairs, exhaust pipes, recessed lights, and electric outlets. Ongoing maintenance of central air systems is necessary to prevent air loss.
Reduce Water Needs
Everyone wants to have a good looking yard in the summer. However, constant watering is expensive and taxing on the environment. One way to avoid this is through installing rainwater catchment systems that use gutters and barrels to catch and store water that falls on roofs. Normally, these systems pay for themselves in a relatively short period of time.
Going green this summer could have a beneficial impact on the environment and your wallet.
To learn more about green building please visit this page: www.oldeheritage.com/green-building-presentation.php or call our Zebulon office at 919-269-4555.
This is all so true! Great advice.
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