Keeping Cool and Dry Part II: 7 Quick and easy ways to keep your home cool
Summertime heat is upon us and keeping your home cool becomes essential for comfort. While cranking up the air conditioning may seem like the obvious solution (and oftentimes it’s a must), it’s not always the most energy-efficient or budget-friendly option. Fortunately, there are plenty of simple and effective ways to keep your house cool without relying solely on AC. Here are seven strategies to help you beat the heat and maintain a comfortable indoor environment while reducing energy consumption and saving $$$.
Window Treatments During the hottest parts of the day, close curtains, blinds, or shades to block out the sun’s heat and glare. Choose light-colored window coverings to reflect heat away from your home. Blackout curtains can also significantly reduce heat gain, especially in rooms with large windows or direct sunlight exposure.
Optimize Ventilation Proper ventilation is key. Open windows strategically during cooler times of the day (early morning and late evening) to allow fresh air to flow. Ceiling fans or use of portable fans improve air circulation and create a breeze, which can make the indoor environment feel cooler.
Seal Air Leaks Check for drafts around windows, doors, and other openings, as they can allow warm air to seep into your home and cool air to escape. Use weather stripping or caulking to seal any gaps.
Use Appliances Efficiently Appliances such as ovens, stoves, and clothes dryers generate heat when in use, contributing to indoor temperature rise. During hot weather, minimize the use of these heat-generating appliances during peak hours. You might even consider air-drying clothes outdoors and using small countertop appliances like toaster ovens instead of the oven to reduce heat buildup in the house.
Cook and Grill Outdoors Take advantage of warm weather by cooking meals outdoors on the grill or using other outdoor cooking appliances. Plan simple, low maintenance meals or use the stove sparingly to avoid unnecessary heat indoors.
Limit Indoor Heat Sources Be mindful of activities that generate heat inside your home, such as hot showers, running electronics, or leaving lights on for extended periods. Opt for energy-efficient LED lighting and unplug electronic devices when not in use.
Maintain Your HVAC Its that time of year again. If you have central air conditioning, ensure that your HVAC system has had its annual maintenance to maximize its efficiency and performance. Change air filters regularly and clean air vents and ducts. And make sure to adjust the thermostat settings to optimize energy usage and comfort, setting it higher when you’re away and lower when you’re at home.
