HOME WARRANTY GROUP PROVIDES SUMMER TIPS

By Mark Lightfoot *
 
           Summer months provide an opportune time for homeowners to extend the life of the operating systems in their homes while achieving energy conservation. The Home Warranty Association of California (HWAC), therefore, has issued a checklist of tips to achieve these goals. According to HWAC, air conditioning efficiency and maintenance, clothes dryer conservation, and pool and spa maintenance are among the critical areas of attention.
 

Air Conditioning Efficiency and Maintenance

           HWAC recommends that during the summer thermostats be set at the highest comfortable temperature.  Typical settings are 78 degrees for summer cooling, as compared to 70 degrees for winter heating.  The association emphasizes that energy costs for operating your air conditioner increase from 3 to 8 percent for each degree your thermostat is lowered below 78 degrees.

 

• Draw drapes and blinds during hot days.  Be sure furniture or drapes do not block airflow from air conditioner.
  
• Minimize use of heat-generating appliances, such as ranges and clothes dryers.
  
• For optimum performance, clean or replace your filters once a month and service your unit once a year.
  
• Avoid undermining the effectiveness of your air conditioner by letting direct sunlight heat into your home while the unit is trying to cool it.
  

           If air does not feel cool enough, check the following items before seeking professional advice: Is the air filter clogged?  Are the registers allowing air to flow?  Is the thermostat set too high?  Is your room temperature below 70 degrees?

Clothes Dryer Conservation

           To cut down on electrical costs and save on the life of your clothes, run loads consecutively.  This keeps the dryer warm and reduces energy demand.
          

           Run clothes through an extra spin cycle.  You’ll save money by lessening the time it takes to dry your clothes since it costs less to run your washing machine than your dryer.
          

           Try to run heavy use appliances like clothes dryers in the evening after 7 p.m. when peak use times are over.

      
Pool and Spa

         Clean filter on a regular basis to avoid unforeseen problems. A dirty filter is the most common cause of problems associated with pool or spa equipment.  If your filter is dirty, it can prevent the proper cleaning of your pool or spa and prevent the heater from working effectively.

Mark Lightfoot is President,  Home Warranty Association of California

and VP & Gen Counsel, American Home Shield, Inc.

June 1, 2004  Reprinted by permission