A grand space with high ceilings goes great with the large blades and striking design of these Palisade by Fanimation fans, available at Pacific Ceiling Fans.

Skyrocketing energy costs came just in time for the hottest months of the year. When we need to cut costs all-around, it’s hard to imagine how we will beat the heat. But cooling your home doesn’t have to be pricey. You can cut costs and save energy with these innovative solutions.

Outdoor fans bring a hidden benefit with their decor. "If you're having parties outside, it's good to have air circulation, because it keeps bugs away," says Tom Ogawa, of Lighting Concepts.

Ride the Wind

When you want to cut costs, the first thing you should do is take advantage of what you have. Here in Hawaii, that means trade winds. These strategies will help fully utilize our natural wind.

1. Catch Wayward Breezes

Slider windows of the past only welcomed breezes that blew straight into the house. Today, casement windows bring winds running alongside your home in, too. “When positioned properly, the casement can act as a ‘wing’ outside your home to catch the air and direct those cool breezes right inside,” says Pam Barrett, of Coastal Windows Inc.

2. Keep Windows Open

Louver windows bring in the wind and provide privacy. They come in a variety of materials such as glass, aluminum, wood and vinyl, and their design allows them to remain open at all times, even when it’s raining. Windows from Breezway Louvre Windows’ Altair line feature a patented living hinge and drainage channel designed to ensure maximum air and water tightness. Because louvers can be opened at varying degrees, they allow you to maximize air ventilation by regulating air flow. “Louvered window systems provide the maximum ventilation possible. You have all the louvers that open to almost 90 degrees. You can adjust them and maximize air flow because you’re regulating it,” says Anthony Borge, of RMA Sales.  

Photo courtesy of Screens & Things Inc. These Breezway Louvre Windows come in aluminum, wood and PVC frames. Available at Screens &Things Inc. and all major window suppliers in Hawaii.

3. Cool and Protect

Awning windows are another option for those who don’t want to worry about leaving their windows open in the rain. The shade provides added cooling as well. Victor Sun Control awning windows, available from Custom Contractors Inc., give 100 percent ventilation and lock for added security. 

4. Rethink Screens

Want to feel open air without the bugs that usually accompany the great outdoors? That’s what screens are for. Install them for any type of window or door without sacrificing style or ease of use. Open or close screens with the push of a button. Maintain by hosing them off every six months—it   couldn’t be easier.
But it’s not just about ease; we’re talking about cooling your home, too. Premium solar screens from Retractable Screen Solutions block up to 80 percent of UV rays, keeping your home cool and free of bugs, while allowing you to enjoy the fresh air. If you’re worried about security, consider a locking security screen door, such as the Ikaika hinged security screen door at Screens & Things Inc., which provides security and a clear view, without compromising style. 

Photo courtesy of Pella Arhitectural Products The ThermaStar products, from Pella, made with Low-E insulationg glass, reduce UV damage to furniture and drapes.

Fan It Out

Ever-popular ceiling fans endure for a reason: they require low electricity usage (generally less than a 100-watt light bulb), while also making a room feel cooler by at least 8 degrees Fahrenheit. Their decorative aspects can also dramatically alter the look of a room.  

1. Reduce Water Damage

Much like any other cooling or ventilation product, your location and needs should factor into your choice. If you live in a wet area or near the ocean, or even want to use an outdoor fan, invest in wet-rated models to avoid rust and moisture absorption. The wet-rated fans encase the motor, protecting it from elements.
 

2. Size Things Up

Select the largest possible fan for your room to ensure maximized cooling effects. Typically, sizes run from 36 to 60 inches, which is the measurement from the tip of one blade to the tip of the opposite blade. A 42-inch fan works best for a standard, 12-feet-by-12-feet room. For a 20-feet-by-20-feet room, a 52-inch fan should do the trick. If your room is larger than 20-feet-by-20-feet, you may want to consider multiple fans.

3. Replace Your Blades

The type of fan blade used is also important. “A lot of people sell pressed-wood blades, but pressed wood will swell and absorb moisture,” says Kyle Kamakura, of Dial Electric & Lighting Gallery. “There are a number of other options. We have Casablanca blades that won’t swell. Or you can use an unleaded manufacturer’s fan with a plastic blade.” This will equate to prolonged life for your fan and less money spent over time.

Eliminate the Heat

When opening the windows just isn’t enough, turn to technology to give you a cool boost.

1. Buy a Better Window

Check for an Energy Star rating when shopping for windows. Pella Architectural Products’ ThermaStar Series vinyl windows and doors are exceptionally energy efficient, earning Energy Star ratings (and lowering your energy bills). They are also built for easy maintenance and installation, as well as for high performance. Interlocking sashes help to seal out drafts, which also increases their energy efficiency. The vinyl material will never need paint, and it won’t rot, ensuring a consistent look with little upkeep.

2. Choose Intelligent Products

Keep the heat outside with an exhaust fan that almost thinks for itself (or for you). The Panasonic WhisperGreen ventilation fan, available at Admor HVAC Products Inc., is Energy Star-rated. Models featuring the SmartAction Motion Sensor actually activate and elevate the fan to a maximum level when it senses a person, and return to a minimum level when that person leaves.

3. Shut Out the Heat

Once you have your windows in place, consider shutters as coverings. They come with limitless decorative possibilities and provide a cooling effect by blocking the sun’s rays. Depending how you position them, shutters can also provide a great deal of privacy while still filtering in natural light. If you also want to air condition your home, you’ll need shutters made from Polywood, available at Sunburst Shutters. This material is manufactured with insulating material inside, so it will keep cool air in, and heat outside where it belongs—another great energy-saving feature.
 

Photo courtesy of Suntech Hawaii “The best spot to put [photovoltaic] panels is on your southern-facing roof. That’s the side that is facing the sun all day long and taking in all the sun’s heat and rays,” says  Sean Mullen, president of Suntech Hawaii.

Soak up

the Sun

In Hawaii, the sun shines nearly every day. Why not put it to work, and use solar energy to cool your home?

1. Think Upward

Solar attic fans, such as those offered by Suntech Hawaii, cool your home by releasing hot air from your attic. Sean Mullen, president of Suntech, says using a solar attic fan can help make your home up to 10 degrees cooler. Another added benefit? By keeping the roof cooler, the fans actually extend the life of the roof.

2. Invest in Photovoltaics

The growing popularity of photovoltaic panels can be attributed to rising energy costs. Photovoltaic panels convert the sun’s rays into electricity, saving energy costs all around. Some are put off by what appears to be a hefty initial cost for the installation and materials involved, but the return on energy-cost savings is well worth it in the long run.

Taking full advantage of our natural resources is good for the environment and good for your wallet. “With the combination of an attic fan, photovoltaics and insulation, you can’t go wrong. It makes a very big difference,” Mullen says.