As summer approaches and temperatures rise, energy bills often follow suit as air conditioners work overtime. Fortunately, there are ways to keep your home cool while maintaining energy efficiency and keeping costs manageable.
While air conditioning is a lifesaver during sweltering heat, it comes with environmental trade-offs. Air conditioners are a significant contributor to greenhouse gas emissions, which exacerbate global warming and lead to more extreme heat waves. Scientists warn that temperatures are expected to rise annually, but you can strike a balance between staying comfortable and reducing environmental impact.
Here are 12 practical tips to help:
1. Clean Your Air Conditioner
Blocked vents and dirty filters hinder airflow, forcing your air conditioner to work harder. Regularly cleaning the vents, filters, and ducts—or hiring a professional to do so—ensures smooth airflow, improving efficiency and lowering energy costs.
2. Schedule Professional Maintenance
Even if you handle basic cleaning yourself, it’s wise to have a professional inspect your air conditioning system. They can identify issues such as faulty wiring or poor airflow, helping prevent costly repairs later.
3. Maintain a Consistent Temperature
Avoid large temperature fluctuations during the day. Keeping the thermostat steady reduces strain on your air conditioner during peak heat hours.
4. Opt for a Higher Temperature
Setting the thermostat to around 70°F instead of lower temperatures can cut energy use by up to 20%. Lowering the temperature too much not only increases costs but also impacts the environment.
5. Turn It Off When Possible
Take advantage of cooler nights and breezy weather by turning off the air conditioner and opening windows. When no one is home, turn off the system or set it to a higher temperature (around 70°F) to conserve energy and give the unit a break.
6. Be Mindful of Peak Hours
Energy usage peaks in the afternoon and evening when temperatures are highest. Spend time at cooler spots, such as a local pool, lake, or air-conditioned public space, to reduce reliance on your air conditioner during these hours.
7. Close Windows During the Day
If you’ve enjoyed cool night breezes with open windows, remember to shut them in the morning to keep the rising heat out.
8. Block Out Sunlight
Closing blinds or curtains during the day can significantly reduce the amount of heat entering your home, keeping your air conditioner from overworking.
9. Use Fans Alongside Your Air Conditioner
Ceiling fans are excellent for circulating cool air, allowing you to rely less on your air conditioner while maintaining a comfortable indoor temperature.
10. Cook Strategically
Minimize the use of heat-producing appliances during the hottest parts of the day. Opt for microwave or slow cooker meals instead of using the oven. Alternatively, prepare cold dishes like salads or charcuterie boards to keep your home cool.
11. Improve Ventilation and Insulation
Proper insulation is key to efficient cooling. Seal any cracks or gaps, use weatherstripping, and ensure your attic or basement is well-insulated to prevent cool air from escaping.
12. Invest in a Smart Thermostat
Although smart thermostats require an upfront investment, their programmable features help optimize energy usage. They can adjust temperatures automatically while you’re away, ensuring efficiency without sacrificing comfort.
By adopting these tips, you can enjoy a cooler, more energy-efficient summer while keeping costs—and your environmental impact—in check.
“1000-Lb Sisters” Star Flaunts 176-Lb Weight Loss and Proves Anything Is Possible
Amy Slaton, known from the show 1000-Lb Sisters, has amazed her fans by losing an incredible 176 pounds (79.8 kg). At 36 years old, Amy proudly showed off her new look on TikTok, wearing a strapless black dress. Let’s dive into her motivating journey.
Amy has been in the spotlight for a long time.
Amy was born in Dixon, Kentucky. She has four siblings, one of whom is Tammy Slaton. Tammy is her partner in crime on the show 1000-Lb Sisters.
Amy and Tammy’s combined weight was a thousand pounds (453 kg) in the first season. This brought them into the spotlight as fans watched their journey to lose weight and improve their health. Both sisters underwent weight-loss surgery to help them become slimmer and healthier.
She overcame both emotional and physical challenges.
Amy has faced significant relationship challenges. She was previously married to Michael Halterman. They had two sons together, Gage and Glenn. Their relationship began when they were both in high school. The couple separated less than a year after their second child was born. This breakup marked a pivotal point in Amy’s life, leading to personal growth and new relationships.
Amy has a disability due to her legal blindness. She has a rare eye condition called toxoplasmosis. But Amy has not let it stop her from pursuing success.
Her fans keep supporting her.
Despite her challenges, Amy has received overwhelming support from her fans. When she shared her recent breakup with her boyfriend, fans flooded her TikTok comments with messages of encouragement. Amy responded gratefully to them.
She thanked everyone and admitted that it had been a rough few days. But she isn’t crying over spilled milk.
Amy is focusing on her overall health.
Amy’s journey isn’t just about her relationships. In December 2023, she gave an exclusive interview about prioritizing her mental health and parenting over weight loss. This decision came after her split from Michael and her diagnosis of bipolar disorder. Amy emphasized the importance of a supportive environment for her family’s happiness and growth.
Before revealing her latest weight loss, Amy shared deep reflections on her emotional strength. She shared she doesn’t wish to surround herself with those who bring her down. She added she gets hurt but doesn’t let that hold her back.
A stunning transformation.
Amy has amazed her fans by losing an incredible 176 pounds (79kg). Amy had bariatric surgery, which helped her lose a total of 136 pounds (61kg) initially. She proudly showed off her new look on TikTok, wearing a strapless black dress with bows. Her transformation is a testament to her resilience and determination.
In her TikTok post, Amy wrote a caption that mixed vulnerability with celebration. She said she was “serving body baby with a dash of low self-esteem, but doing the thing.” This update came during a tough time in her life, as she was dealing with heartbreak.
Amy’s sister Tammy also went through a wonderful transformation. Read about her story here.
Leave a Reply