Living on a fixed income isn’t easy. Every year we read stories about seniors who refuse to turn on their home’s air-conditioning to cut costs. But experts say that even a two-degree rise in the temperature can affect older people, especially those with chronic health conditions. As a result, many of them fall prey to heat-related illnesses.
That’s why it’s important to do a home “check-up.” A yearly home checkup can keep older loved ones cooler, safer and happier, all summer long. According to the Energy Education Council, the first step is to check your home’s insulation. By hiring a qualified insulation expert to replace or add more insulation, you can keep more cool air in and hot air out. The second step is to adequately ventilate your attic. Because he
at rises, new vents or fans can release or pull hot air out of your home.
Thirdly, call a reputable air-conditioning company to inspect the AC system before summer arrives. A qualified technician can clean exterior equipment, inspect hoses, and replace filters. If your AC system needs to be replaced, buy something with the blue Energy Star label. Regular maintenance, plus replacing filters monthly, will not only extend the life of your AC unit, but help you save you money on your electric bills.That’s something to make even a penny pincher smile!
Looking for more ways to summer-proof the home and keep seniors cool and comfortable? Coming in July, Part Two of Summer Safety– from the Inside Out.
