In brief: In this sponsored post, we share some energy tips from Reliant, a long-time partner of Space City Weather who helps keep the lights on here so we can keep on doing what we’re doing.
It has been a warm start to the year. February, in particularly, was sultry for the end of winter. The month finished with an average temperature of 63.8 degrees, which ranks as the fourth warmest February on record in Houston (February 2017 ranks highest, at 66.4 degrees). March has started out very warm as well, with an average temperature of 72.9 degrees, which is nearly 12 degrees above normal.
Given the warm start to the year, and that today is World Energy Efficiency Day, we thought it might be a good time for a reminder that smart energy choices now can help keep homes comfortable and bills in check as summer approaches. To mark the day, Reliant is sharing simple, cost‑conscious tips to help manage energy use more efficiently this spring heading into summer.
Home improvements
With warmer days already settling in, now is a smart time to tackle quick home fixes that can improve efficiency and help limit cooling costs as temperatures continue to rise.
- Adding more insulation to your home can be among the most cost-effective improvements you can make. Make sure every part of your house is insulated and add more if needed; spray foam insulation is great for getting into all the nooks and crannies.
- Inspect ductwork for loose connections or damaged insulation as leaks can waste up to 30 percent of cooled air.
- Schedule a spring tune‑up to ensure the AC system is ready for high demand.
- Replace or clean air filters every 30-60 days, as a clean filter can reduce AC energy consumption by up to 15 percent.
Streamline your energy use
As AC use ramps up earlier in the season, small, smart energy choices can help keep homes comfortable while managing monthly bills.
- Follow the 4×4 rule by raising your air conditioning temperature 4 degrees if you’ll be away from home 4 hours or more.
- Do laundry more efficiently by using cold water and air drying bedding and clothing.
- Run ceiling fans counterclockwise to push cool air downward. Use fans first before turning on the AC.
- Grill outdoors when it’s nice out. Cooking indoors raises the heat, requiring the AC to use more electricity.
- Open windows at night to let cool air in, then close them in the morning to trap the cool air.