If you're buying a room air conditioner, look for the ENERGY STAR® label.
ENERGY STAR qualified room air conditioners exceed minimum federal standards for energy consumption by at least 10%.
| Look for the yellow EnergyGuide label comparing energy use of appliances (PDF) |
| Find out more about ENERGY STAR qualified appliances |
| Open windows on opposite sides of the house for cross-ventilation instead of using an air conditioner. If you can't create a cross-breeze, use fans to move air through your home. |
When buying air conditioners, choose the smallest ENERGY STAR® qualified unit appropriate for the room you're cooling. |
Fill gaps along the sides of your air conditioner to keep the outside air from leaking in. |
Don't let air conditioners bake in the sun. Install them near shade trees, out of direct sunlight or on the north side of the house, if possible. |
Clean air conditioner filters regularly and keep the front and back of air conditioners unobstructed. |
During the day, close coverings on windows that get direct sunlight. On hottest days, keep these windows closed. External awnings and shade trees also provide excellent shade for windows. |
In the cooler evening and early morning hours, open your windows instead of using air conditioning. Use a window fan, blowing toward the outside, to pull cool air in through other windows and to push hot air out. |
Use the exhaust fan in your range hood to remove hot air from your kitchen while cooking. The savings in your cooling costs far outweigh the electricity use of the fan. |
Use a bath fan to remove heat and moisture generated by showers. |
On hot days, delay heat-producing tasks, such as dishwashing, baking, or doing laundry, until the cooler evening hours or early morning. |
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Summer can be the best time to make comprehensive home energy efficiency improvements. Efficiency Vermont approved Home Performance with ENERGY STAR contractors can help you save energy, money and stay more comfortable year round. |
