Cooling Guide
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In some parts of B.C., home cooling can account for a significant percentage of summertime energy use. You can meet most cooling needs with passive techniques, such as using window coverings, that don’t require ongoing energy use or expensive equipment. Before you reach for the air conditioning, consider these tips to keep your home cool while saving energy and money.

Many of the steps you take to keep your home cool in summer will also help keep it warmer in winter. See our home Heating Guide for more information.

Tip		Affordability Affordability High Affordability Low Affordability	Cost Savings Cost Savings High Savings Low Savings	CO ₂ Reduction CO₂ Reduction High Reduction Low Reduction
	Shade Your Windows Using internal blinds and drapes can block up to 65% of the heat that would otherwise come in through your windows.
	Plant A Deciduous Shade Tree Well-designed landscaping can minimize summer heat gain in your home.
	Add or Upgrade Insulation Insulation is important year-round. A well-insulated house will stay cool in summer and warm in winter.
	Install a Ceiling Fan Ceiling fans are an energy-efficient way to cool your home in the summer and circulate warm air in the winter.
	Minimize Indoor Heat Generation Cooking is often the biggest contributor to indoor heat...
	Draft Proof Your Home Just as cracks and gaps leave room for cold air to come in during winter, they allow warm air to come in and cool air to leave in summer.
	Carefully Consider A Heat Pump In the warmest areas of B.C., cooling with heat pumps instead of air conditioners is an energy-efficient choice.
	Use an ENERGY STAR Air Conditioner If you need to use an air conditioner in the summer, ensure it’s ENERGY STAR.

Power Smart
tip sheet

Residential air conditioners
[PDF, 106 Kb]

Last Modified: Sep 18, 2009

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