Tips To Keep Your Home Cool This Summer

For many, summer means BBQs, hiking through our local parks, and enjoying the sunshine. While we're lucky enough to have warm summer weather in Kentucky, there are days when that harsh sun isn't quite so fun, and we often turn up our air conditioners to stay cool and comfortable in our homes.

 

However, cranking up the AC leads to an expensive monthly electric bill and contributes to global warming. Luckily, there are ways to naturally cool down your home to help save you money, be kind to the earth, and keep you comfortable year-round.

 

Cooling Tips for Your Home

Close your blinds

Closing your blinds can make a significant difference in the comfort of your home. On north-facing windows, close your blinds at night; your home will be cooler when you wake up. During the hottest times of the day, keep them closed for an extra cooling effect! Also, consider investing in black-out curtains to protect against those harsh sun rays.

Block the heat

To save money on cooling, preventing heat from getting into your house in the first place is essential. The best way of doing this is using shade windows and walls with external coverings like blinds or awnings. In addition, plant deciduous trees that act as a shady canopy over your home but still let light through.

 

Adjust ceiling fans

If you want a more cooling effect with your ceiling fan, make sure it rotates counterclockwise in summer. Then, in warmer weather, set the fan speed on high.

 

Close doors and seal gaps

Closing doors to rooms you aren't using is an excellent way of conserving energy. Seal gaps around your house's doorways and windows for when it gets sweltering hot outside so that cool drafts don't escape into other areas of the home.

 

Go outside at night

Those cooped up all day can find relief from the heat outside after dark. Open your home to cool breezes by locking doors and windows when you go out for dinner or a night on the town – just make sure not to leave anything valuable inside!

 

Sip an icy drink

Drinking icy-cold drinks, applying a damp cloth to your neck and other pressure points on the body, or having a cold shower helps cool you down without needing an air conditioner!

 

Consider cotton fabrics

Cotton fabrics are the best way to keep cool during hot summer days because they allow your body's sweat glands to quickly release water from its surface. Light, loose clothing made of breathable cotton will be most comfortable during the heat. 

 

Change your lightbulbs

When you can't cool your home, it's time for a change. Why not try energy-saving bulbs? They'll save on costs and help keep the temperature down!

 

Stay out of the kitchen

Running powerful indoor cooking appliances such as your stove or oven will make the air conditioner work harder, creating additional heat. Instead, consider grilling outdoors or making a dish that doesn't require your stove or microwave.

 

Consider a lighter roof

A lighter color roof is better for reflecting ultraviolet rays, limiting heat absorption. If you're in the market for a new roof and want it to keep your home cool during the heat, a lighter color roof is the answer.

 

Trust Total Comfort

Total Comfort has been Madison County's best and largest HVAC company since 1987. From residential work to emergency ventilation for healthcare facilities, we pride ourselves on quality service at reasonable prices. We have grown into Madison County's best and largest heating and air conditioning company. We make sure you stay comfortable, no matter what the weather. Call us at 859-624-0903 or visit our website to learn more.

 

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Sources

https://www.familyhandyman.com/list/how-to-keep-your-home-cool-during-summer/
https://www.artofmanliness.com/lifestyle/homeownership/how-to-keep-your-house-cool-without-cranking-the-ac/