Summer cooling costs can be a hefty expense, especially when you keep turning down your thermostat. Luckily, you can survive the summer heat without breaking the bank. Here are 10 ways to keep your home cool this summer. These efficient tips will keep you cool and save you money during the hot summer months ahead:
Tip 1: Block the Sun with Curtains, Awnings or Plants
Blocking your windows from the sun is a great way to keep out heat. Heat radiates through the room when sunlight beats down on the windows, so use your blinds or curtains to provide some extra shade. Quality blinds will also block out more sun. You may want to install awnings over windows or utilize large plants/trees to help block the sun from outside.
Tip 2: Use a Fan
Ceiling fans help circulate cool air throughout the home. It's ideal to have the fan blades in the downward position so that the cooler air stays at sitting level, rather than rising to the ceiling.
Haiku UV-C Big Ass Fans feature a UV-C light that kills airborne viruses, bacteria, and more, employ several modes of operation, are wi-fi enabled, and are available in a variety of colors. You can also use room fans to help circulate air.
The Vornado 660 is commonly used for circulating air around entire rooms, but others prefer the unique style of the Vornado V-Fan. Consider adding one to the living room or office for a cool breeze while you work or lounge on the couch. Creating a cross breeze is a common way to survive summer without air conditioning.
Tip 3: Buy LED Light Bulbs
Traditional light bulbs radiate heat, but LED light bulbs generate less heat and emit a brighter, purer light. These bulbs also last longer and use less electricity. They're a great way to conserve energy and keep from adding extra warmth in your space.
Tip 4: Use Appliances At Night
Avoid adding even more heat to your home during the hottest times of the day. Wait until the evening to use heat-producing appliances like the dishwasher, stove, oven, and even washer/dryer. You can also unplug electronics when you're not using them; most give off heat even when they're not in use!
Tip 5: Install Sun Setters or Window Tinting
Sun setters are a type of screen that help reflect sun away from the windows. These are installed on the exterior of the home and can be taken off during the cooler months of the year. Residential window tinting is something else to consider. The tinting is easy to install and some can be applied without having to call a professional. Most tints can also be removed when you longer need them.
Tip 6: Inspect Insulation
A well-insulated attic and walls help keep heat out, particularly if you live in a warm area of the country. Be sure to inspect the insulation in your attic and replace if needed.
Tip 7: Seal Drafts
Check the framework around the doors and windows of the home and seal any drafty spots with caulking. Around doors, weather stripping is a better solution as it can be left in place all year long. This is equally effective for keeping out the cold in winter months too!
Tip 8: Keep Your Body Cool
Keeping yourself cool can also make you feel more comfortable at home. Here are some simple ways to keep yourself cool once your home is ready for summer:
- Change to "summer bedding"
- Drink plenty of water
- Eat spicy food (can increase perspiration to cool and evaporate your body!)
- Eat more mint
- Dress appropriately
Tip 9: Clean Ducts
When the ducts in the home become clogged, air has a hard time circulating efficiently. This can lead to an insufficient amount of airflow. Annual duct cleaning helps maintain a proper flow of cool air throughout your home.
Tip 10: Try Zone Cooling
Still struggling with how to cool down your room? If certain areas of your home, particularly the rooms you use most often, are warmer than the rest of your house, you may want to consider zone cooling. Zone cooling is also a great option for homes without central HVAC systems.
Adding a temporary portable AC, efficient window AC, or single-zone ductless mini-split can provide targeted cooling in the rooms you use the most. These systems are usually the best ways to cool an apartment without air conditioning. Window ACs and mini-splits are particularly efficient cooling products. Look for models with high EERs (Energy Efficiency Ratios) or Energy Star-rated models for the most efficient options.
By using these tips to cool your home, you'll be able to save money but keep a comfortable living environment. For the most savings and comfort, combine several of these options together.
