As temperatures rise across Portugal, many households are looking for ways to keep their homes cool. But staying comfortable during a Portuguese summer isn't always easy, especially with the intense heat that many people endure, just as they face cold indoor temperatures during the winter. In this article from Deco Alerta, you'll find practical guidance on how to keep your home cooler in summer while using energy more efficiently.
Deco Alerta is a feature produced by Deco – Associação Portuguesa para a Defesa do Consumidor, and is tailored for consumers living in Portugal.
When the heat kicks in, being indoors can feel unbearable. To cool your home without breaking the bank — or harming the environment — it’s important to choose the right equipment and adopt smart habits. So, what’s the best way to cool your house without seeing a big increase in your electricity bill?
Your experience mirrors that of many people in Portugal who struggle with heat at home during the summer and cold in winter. According to Deco, most households opt for fans or portable air circulators (58.8%), air conditioning units with both cooling and heating functions (45.4%), or cooling-only air conditioning units (7.3%).
Regardless of the system you use, Deco strongly recommends keeping a close eye on indoor temperatures. Regulating your home’s temperature is essential not only for energy efficiency but also for your comfort. Ideally, try to keep the temperature between 22°C and 24°C during summer.
The right clothing and good ventilation can help you feel comfortable even with slightly higher temperatures — and can save you money. Every extra degree lower you set your air conditioner can significantly increase your energy bill.
Avoid opening windows while your cooling systems are running. Did you know that reducing the set temperature of your air conditioner by just 1°C could lead to a 7% increase in energy consumption?
Don’t forget to switch off cooling devices when you’re not at home. In fact, Deco recommends switching them off 10 to 15 minutes before leaving a room, to avoid unnecessary energy use.
If energy-conscious living is one of your priorities, you’re not alone. Many of us are increasingly aware of the need to protect the environment — but awareness alone isn’t enough. We need concrete actions. By reducing energy consumption intentionally, we also reduce the demand for electricity production, which helps lower greenhouse gas emissions.
Let’s make sustainability a habit — for ourselves and for the planet.
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For more information or personalised advice, contact the Deco team in Portugal on 213 710 227, via WhatsApp at 966 449 110, or by email at deco@deco.pt.
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