It’s time to open the windows, break out the mop and start cleaning.

Spring cleaning is the perfect time to think about energy efficiency. Work these seven tips into your routine to save energy and money.

1. Change the direction of airflow on your ceiling fan: In the winter, the fan should rotate clockwise to push warm air toward the floor. In spring, switch the direction so the blades draw air upward, cooling the room with constant airflow.
2. Keep your blades clean: While you’re up there changing the direction of your ceiling fan, dust the blades. This will keep the fan running efficiently. This is also a good time to check for dust around the motor housing.
3. Install window treatments: Energy-efficient window treatments or coverings – such as blinds, shades and films – do more than improve the look of your home. They also slash heat gain when temperatures rise, reducing your energy costs.
4. Bring in sunlight: During daylight hours, switch off artificial lights, open the curtains and use sunlight to brighten your home.
5. Service your air conditioner: Easy maintenance, like replacing or clearing air filters, can lower your cooling system’s energy consumption by up to 15%. Spring cleaning could also serve as a reminder to call your HVAC professional for a thorough cleaning to make sure the system is performing like it should.
6. Cook outside: On warmer spring days, keep the heat out of your home by using an outdoor grill instead of your stove or oven.
7. Update your landscaping: Believe it or not, your landscaping can also improve your home’s comfort and lower your energy bills. On average, a well-designed landscape saves enough energy to pay for itself in fewer than eight years. Check out energy.gov for the top three landscaping strategies by climate.

Do you have any other energy efficient spring cleaning tips? Tweet us @pplelectric so we can share them with our customers.