By Herald staff
As temperatures rise in Chattanooga, so do the demands on home air conditioning systems. But keeping your house cool during the summer doesn’t have to result in sky-high energy bills. Nate Thomasson, an Energy Pro with EPB, shares practical and affordable ways to stay comfortable while managing energy usage. From thermostat strategies to smart appliance use, Thomasson offers advice that can help homeowners save money and reduce wear on their HVAC systems – all while staying cool.
What are your top three tips for keeping a home cool during the summer without overworking the AC?
“Clean or replace your HVAC filters monthly,” Thomasson advises. “Add weather stripping if you can see or feel air around your doors. And close blinds on the sunny side of your home.”
He adds one bonus tip: “LEDs use less energy and give off almost no heat. Make the switch as your halogen and incandescent bulbs burn out.”
Should customers adjust their thermostat when they leave for the day? If so, what’s the ideal setting to balance comfort and savings?
“Limit thermostat changes to a couple of degrees, even while at work,” Thomasson says. “When at home, set the thermostat as high as comfortable and increase the temperature by a degree or two, as long as it’s still comfortable. When you go to work, you can increase the temperature a couple degrees to reduce usage when you’re out. Or, you can use a programmable thermostat to manage your usage throughout the day, even when you aren’t home.”
Does setting the thermostat to a much colder temperature help cool your home faster – or is that a common energy myth?
“That’s a myth,” Thomasson confirms. “Your thermostat will reach your desired temperature at the same pace, regardless of whether you set it for a low temperature. Setting it to a lower temperature will not cool your home faster.”
Are ceiling fans worth using during the summer? If so, how can they be used effectively alongside an air conditioner?
“Ceiling fans absolutely help reduce usage by creating a cooling effect or wind chill,” says Thomasson. “Make sure they are counter-clockwise and turn them off when you leave the room, since no one will be there to enjoy the cooling effect.”
What should homeowners know about keeping sunlight out of their home during peak heat hours? Are blackout curtains or window films worthwhile investments?
“Keeping blinds closed on the sunny side of homes certainly offers a cooling effect,” Thomasson explains. “Blackout curtains and window films offer an additional layer of heat reduction if you’re in a position to make that investment. You can also think ahead to next season by landscaping with plants that block the sun.”
What inexpensive upgrades or home improvements can make a noticeable difference in summer energy bills?
“The first recommendation we usually make is related to weather stripping,” Thomasson says. “If you can see or feel air around your doors, you need weather stripping. It’s an inexpensive improvement that makes a difference. And remember to keep exterior doors closed – even the garage."
For those with a bit more room in the budget, Thomasson recommends scheduling HVAC inspections twice a year. “They ensure your HVAC is operating optimally and not using more energy than needed,” he says. “You might also be eligible for a home energy rebate if you go through the EPB/TVA Home Energy Rebate program and use a qualified contractor.”
Can running appliances like ovens and clothes dryers during the day significantly impact cooling costs? What are your favorite “cool cooking” or laundry-time tips?
“For cooking, grill outside so your A/C doesn’t have to work as hard to cool the house as when your range is full blast,” Thomasson advises. “When cooking indoors, microwaves and countertop appliances produce less heat and cook more quickly than stove-top ranges and ovens.”
On the laundry front, he offers this troubleshooting tip: “If you’re experiencing excessive heat outside of your dryer, check your vent. If it’s installed correctly, you shouldn’t have issues.”
What role does the thermostat’s location in the home play in how efficiently it cools the space?
“Thermostat placement is important because your HVAC will run based on those temperature readings,” Thomasson explains. “Install them on interior walls, away from heat or cool sources and drafts. EPB Energy Pros are available for 30-Minute Calls with a Pro and Home Energy Checkups to help you identify the right location at no cost.”
Are there smart thermostats or other energy-saving tech products you recommend for budget-conscious households?
“Programmable thermostats are a great investment to help manage usage and reduce energy costs,” says Thomasson. “We also suggest looking for the Energy Star logo when you purchase appliances. These labels will tell you how much energy they can save you. Plus, EPB Energy Pros are available for 30-Minute Calls with a Pro to help you choose the right appliance based on your needs.”
What are the most common summer energy myths you encounter – and what’s the truth behind them?
Thomasson points to two persistent myths. “Myth: Close vents and doors to unused rooms to reduce bills. Fact: HVACs are designed today to heat the whole home, so this does not help – and could actually hurt,” he says.
Another common mistake involves setting the thermostat too high while away. “Myth: Turn the temperature on your HVAC up 5 to 10 degrees while you’re at work. Fact: While this might be a good idea if on vacation for a week, this makes your HVAC work much harder to cool your home on a daily basis and increase your bill.”
For more information or to schedule a consultation, visit epb.com/energypros and epb.com/energyrebates.