eBook - Energy Saving Home Improvements from A to Z

Window and Exhaust Fans: Window fans are best used in windows facing the prevailing wind or away from it to provide cross-ventilation. Window fans augment any breeze or create a breeze when the air is still. If the wind direction changes frequently in your area, use reversible-type window fans so you can either pull air into the home or push air out, depending on which way the wind blows. Experiment with positioning the fans in different windows to see which arrangement gives the best cooling effect.

In a larger house, consider installing a window fan that blows air in through a lower-level window in a cool area and another window fan that blows air out through a higher-level window in a hotter area.

Use exhaust fans in the kitchen and bathroom to remove heat and humidity when cooking and bathing. Larger, securely installed exhaust fans can ventilate homes where an open window would be a security issue. Large exhaust fans can be mounted outdoors on a wall or roof to reduce indoor noise. Be cautious with these large exhaust fans. If enough ventilation isn't provided, the fans can pull combustion products (e.g., carbon monoxide which is lethal from furnaces or water heaters) into your living space!

Whole-House Fans: A whole-house fan can substitute for an air-conditioner most of the year in most climates. Whole-house fans combined with ceiling fans and portable fans provide acceptable summer comfort for many families, even in hot weather. See section Installing And Using A Whole House Fan.

Evaporative Coolers: Evaporative coolers or swamp coolers are a popular and energy efficient cooling strategy in dry climates of the United States. Hot outside air enters the swamp cooler. The air passes over water-saturated pads, and the water evaporates into the air. The energy used removes heat from the air. The 15- to 40-degree-cooler air is then directed into the home, and pushes warmer air out through windows. Because this process also humidifies the air, swamp coolers are best used in areas with low summertime relative humidity. Evaporative coolers use less than one-third the energy of air-conditioners, and cost about half as much to install. Unlike central air-conditioning systems that recirculate the same air, evaporative coolers provide a steady stream of fresh air into the house. See section Evaporative Cooling.

Managing Your Home's Ventilation: Remember the following if you plan to cool your home with ventilation:

• Learn how air flows naturally through your home.

• Take advantage of cool night air, and ventilate your home by natural or mechanical methods.

• Keep a clear path for airflow both inside and outside your windows.

• Close windows, doors, and window coverings in the morning before your home starts to heat up.

• Avoid producing heat in your home when it's hot outside.

• Wear cool clothing.

• Raise your air-conditioning thermostat to a more economical temperature. Turn it off completely if you'll be gone for an extended period.

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