Tricks for saving money when you have people over
Labor Day is just a few days away! It’s time to kick back, relax and appreciate all the work that everyone does year round. Labor Day can also mean get-togethers with family and friends. Did you know that having more people in your home can actually raise the temperature of your home, make your air conditioner work harder maintaining temperature and ultimately, raise your utility spending?
Here are some things you can do to have the best of both worlds – entertain without busting the budget.
- Move the party outside. Hey! It’s Labor Day. Hopefully the temperatures in your area are on the decline. If not, find a shady spot and spend time with company outside. Or, move the party to a time of day where the sun is not quite so intense. Yes, in some areas, this is not realistic. But, if the temperatures are reasonable, there’s no reason why you shouldn’t enjoy the fresh air.
- Use the grill not the stove. Grilling is a good idea for any summer gathering. The oven can heat up your home and make your air conditioner work extra hard.
- Avoid opening and shutting exterior doors and windows. Don’t let your cool air escape outside. Constantly opening and closing the doors can make it harder for your home to reach
temperature. So, if you are having an outdoor gathering, make sure that people aren’t constantly going in and out. While you can’t necessarily post a bouncer at your door, it’s good to be aware. - Lower the humidity level in your home. If you have a whole-home dehumidification system, lower the humidity setting. A home that is more humid actually feels hotter than a drier home. With a humidity adjustment, you can maintain comfort without fiddling with the temperature.
Of course, these are only a few ideas. What are your tricks for keeping your home cool during a gathering like Labor Day?