How Mika And Brian Kleinschmidt Keep Home Energy Costs Low During Summer

Realtor and developer duo Mika and Brian Kleinschmidt are great sources on anything home maintenance. Speaking to Realtor.com, the hosts of HGTV's "100 Day Dream Home" shared their tips for keeping energy costs down in the summer. The two things they highlighted were window treatments and properly-serviced AC units. Window treatments are a simple but significant way to keep home energy costs low in hot seasons. They minimize the heat coming in, which reduces the amount of air conditioning needed. By using window treatments effectively, you can also manage the airflow into a room.

On air conditioning systems, you need to ensure that they are well-maintained and used efficiently. Regular maintenance, smart thermostat usage, and optimizing airflow and insulation all contribute to lower energy costs. According to Brian, the AC unit should not be working harder than it needs to and needs servicing every quarter. "It's almost like an oil change or tuneup on a car. You have to continue to do this to make sure that they're running properly," he explained.

Window treatments like blinds, curtains, shades, or drapes should be closed during the hottest parts of the day to block out direct sunlight. This stops the sunlight from raising the temperature indoors, which causes air conditioning systems to work harder. By keeping out the harsh sunlight, you can prevent heat from entering your home and reduce the need for cooling. Some window treatments, like cellular shades and thermal curtains, have insulating properties. They keep the cool air inside and prevent warm air from entering, reducing the workload on your AC.

Energy-efficient window treatments, such as window quilts and roman shades, also make a difference in reducing energy costs. Products specifically designed to improve energy efficiency are more effective in keeping your home cool. You can also take advantage of cooler mornings and evenings by turning off the AC, opening windows, and allowing fresh air to circulate throughout your home. Using ceiling fans and portable fans is another cooling method that requires less energy than air conditioning systems.

Modern air conditioning units often come with high SEER (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio) ratings, which means that the unit is more energy efficient. In addition to this, you should have an appropriately sized air conditioning system. If a unit is too large for a space, it may cycle on and off frequently, leading to energy waste. Conversely, an undersized unit will struggle to cool efficiently. A well-functioning AC system should be properly sized for your home's cooling needs to use the right energy level.

Regular maintenance also ensures that it operates at its best. This looks like cleaning or replacing air filters, cleaning coils, and checking refrigerant levels. Installing a programmable or smart thermostat allows you to set temperature schedules based on your needs, which can save you a lot of money, Brian told Realtor.com. By programming the AC to automatically adjust the temperature when you're away from home or when you don't need intense cooling, you cut down on unnecessary power usage. Mika also advises checking the AC, heating, and cooling systems before you close on a home. Doing this early on lets you know if they are functional or need replacement.