It can cost a pretty penny to keep the air conditioning running, and for those depending only on a fan, 90-degree days can leave the house stifling by suppertime.
But there are ways to save money and stay cool short of sticking your head in the freezer — which is a waste of energy anyway.
Whether it’s closing the drapes to block out the sun or running the dishwasher only at night, here are some ways to keep cool and conserve energy:
• Close the windows when the air conditioner is running.
• At night, turn off the air conditioner and open all of the windows. Turn on some fans — portable or ceiling — to swish around the air a bit.
• If using fans, make sure they are turned on only in rooms that are occupied. It won’t help to circulate the air in the living room at 2 a.m. when everyone is asleep.
• Some appliances generate heat. Whether it’s the oven, the dishwasher or the dryer, try to use them at night, long after the sun has gone down.
• Insulation is important. Close cracks in the walls, roof and window seals with weather stripping or caulk. A towel shoved under the door is a good temporary fix.
• Keep drapes closed during the day. It helps block the sunlight. Reflective drapes work even better.
• To keep a house with no air conditioning cool, keep most of the windows closed during the day. Crack windows on the northern and southern ends of the house to create a cross-breeze.
Christopher Sanchez: 303-954-1698 or csanchez@denverpost.com
Sources: Xcel Energy and Kansas State University’s engineering extension program
