Memorial Day weekend marks the beginning of summer for many (although it’s actually June 21^st on the calendar). We figure there’s no time like the present to begin planning a few summer home improvement projects. These “how-to” ideas are a great starting point to keeping you cool no matter what the temperature is outside.  If you are staring down a humid Minnesota summer like we are, then we suggest making sure your Minneapolis air conditioner is in top shape.  

Home Upgrades Inside and Out

While you may need to consider other factors before deciding whether you’re better off picking up a tool belt or the telephone, we think anyone can handle these small summer projects. Check out our list of DIY home improvement projects that can help you save on your utility bills

• Upgrade to Ductless Air Conditioning – If you’ve compromised on comfort living with a traditional AC window unit, this may be the year to consider ductless air conditioning. Its many advantages, besides making ductwork unnecessary, are that it’s both compact and flexible for zoning different parts of the home depending on their usage; there are no open-window security concerns; and there’s no need to remove and reinstall a bulky unit every time the seasons change.

• Seal Energy-sapping Drafts – If this is a chore you overlooked this past winter, it still makes sense to seal around windows and doors. Why waste energy by cooling the outdoors when caulking and weather stripping offer a cost-effective and easy solution? With caulk gun in hand, check other parts of your home that would benefit from a new seal, like the bathtub, toilets and sinks.

• Attend to Your Water Heater. Providing a protective seal to prevent water infiltration is one way to save on water loss. Another simple solution to reduce your energy bill is to install a water tank insulating blanket. Stores sell kits that make this one- or two-hour project worth your time — you can reduce your heating costs by 10%! While you’re at it, research the benefits of a tankless water heater. Even if you’re riding a heat wave, you’ll feel better knowing that you’ll enjoy hot water on demand.

• Plan Ahead for Shade. While this may take a few years to pay dividends, planting trees in strategic places that will offer natural shade near the house will save you money in energy costs down the road. In the meantime, plan other ways to provide shade now. Retractable awnings offer one solution. Pergolas, which are affordable and easy to assemble, offer another. Shading devices come in many shapes and colors, so think beyond the standard patio table umbrella. Embrace your own style to keep things cool!

If you need service on your heating or air conditioning system, call Welter Heating and Air Conditioning 612-825-6867 for service or installation.

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