BRANCHBURG – Somerville Aluminum has been installing energy-efficient home remodeling products for more than 60 years. Having remodeled more than 100,000 homes in Central Jersey, the home remodeling contractor uses only the finest quality products to maximize energy efficiency when planning any project. Hot summers can certainly lead to higher energy bills, and there are many things homeowners can do to help maximize the energy-efficiency of their homes without breaking the bank. To help get your home ready for the summer, Somerville Aluminum offers the following energy-saving tips:
* Close windows and curtains in the morning before the heat sets in, and then open them in the evening to flush your house with cooler air.
* Change the filters in your heating, ventilating and air conditioning system. Dirty filters contribute to indoor air pollution and increase energy costs by making your HVAC work harder
* If you have an outside air-conditioning unit, remove any debris that may have accumulated during the winter. Also, consider trimming or removing plants, leaves, or high grass that is located close to the unit. These could have a negative impact on your unit.
* Check your windows and doors for any leaks. Leaky windows and doors let hot outdoor air in while allowing cool indoor air to escape. The result is your HVAC has to work harder and your energy bills go up, so make sure you seal those leaks!
* Check your ductwork for any leaks. Leaking ductwork accounts for 25 percent of cooling costs in an average home. Have your ducts tested and have any leaks repaired by a certified contractor.
* Test your system by setting your thermostat to cool and turn down the temperature. The air conditioner should start cooling your home; if it doesn’t, that means there’s a problem. Call a professional to inspect.
* Invest in a programmable thermostat. An ENERGY STAR® programmable thermostat can save you a significant amount of money over a long, hot summer.
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