Beat the Heat: 9 Tips to Keep Your Home Cool This Summer
ERA Evergreen
SPECIAL SAUCE: OUR RECIPE FOR RAVING FANS
SPECIAL SAUCE: OUR RECIPE FOR RAVING FANS
Summer is the season for sun, pleasure, and leisure. However, if you are not prepared, the heat can rapidly make your home miserable. By following these ideas and tactics, you can keep your home cool and pleasant throughout the summer without relying only on air conditioning. Not only will you have a more comfortable living environment, but you will also save money on electricity and lessen your environmental impact. Here are nine suggestions and tactics for keeping your home cool and pleasant throughout the hot summer months. Stay cool!
Use Blackout Curtains or Blinds
One of the most effective ways to keep your home cool is to block out the sun's rays. Blackout curtains or blinds can significantly reduce the amount of heat entering your home. Keep them closed during the hottest parts of the day to maintain a cooler indoor temperature.
Optimize Your Fans
Fans are a great way to circulate air and create a cooling breeze. For maximum effectiveness, use ceiling fans and set them to rotate counterclockwise during the summer. This direction pushes air down, creating a wind-chill effect. Additionally, placing a bowl of ice in front of a fan can help cool the air further.
Create Cross Ventilation
Opening windows on opposite sides of your home can create a cross breeze that helps cool your living space. This method is especially effective during the cooler parts of the day, such as early morning and late evening. Be sure to secure any curtains or blinds to avoid them flapping around.
Limit Heat-Generating Activities
Avoid using heat-generating appliances like ovens, stoves, and dryers during the hottest parts of the day. Instead, opt for no-cook meals, use a microwave, or grill outside. Running the dishwasher and doing laundry during the evening can also help keep your home cooler.
Install a Programmable Thermostat
A programmable thermostat allows you to set specific temperatures for different times of the day. You can program it to cool your home just before you arrive, saving energy and keeping your home comfortable. Smart thermostats can be controlled remotely, giving you even more flexibility.
Use Light-Colored or Reflective Roofing
Dark roofs absorb more heat, which can increase the temperature inside your home. If you’re in the market for a new roof or want to make a change, consider light-colored or reflective materials. These can help reflect more of the sun’s rays and keep your home cooler.
Insulate and Seal Your Home
Proper insulation and sealing can prevent cool air from escaping and hot air from entering your home. Check for gaps around windows, doors, and in your attic. Using weather stripping, caulking, and adding insulation can significantly improve your home’s energy efficiency and keep it cooler.
Plant Shade-Giving Trees or Install Awnings
Planting trees or installing awnings can provide natural shade to your home, reducing the amount of heat that enters. Trees like maple, oak, and birch are great options for providing ample shade. Awnings over windows can also block direct sunlight and keep rooms cooler.
Use Natural Cooling Techniques
Embrace natural cooling methods such as using light, breathable fabrics for your bedding and furniture. Cotton and linen are excellent choices as they allow for better air circulation. Also, consider using a damp cloth or taking a cool shower to help lower your body temperature.
