Keep It Cool: 9 Effective Ways to Cool Your Home
ERA Evergreen
SPECIAL SAUCE: OUR RECIPE FOR RAVING FANS
SPECIAL SAUCE: OUR RECIPE FOR RAVING FANS
As summer temperatures increase, keeping your home cool becomes a top issue. Implementing these ideas will help you create a cooler, more comfortable home environment while saving money on electricity. Here are nine simple and inexpensive ways to battle the heat and keep your interior space cool. Enjoy a cool and energy-efficient summer!
Use Reflective Window Films
Installing reflective or tinted window films can significantly reduce heat gain through windows. These films block a substantial amount of UV rays and heat, keeping your home cooler without obstructing your view.
Optimize Your Curtains and Blinds
Close curtains and blinds during the hottest part of the day. Opt for light-colored or reflective materials, which can help reflect heat away from your living spaces. Blackout curtains are particularly effective in blocking out sunlight and heat.
Install Ceiling Fans
Ceiling fans are a cost-effective way to enhance air circulation. Make sure to set your fans to rotate counterclockwise in the summer, creating a wind-chill effect that makes the room feel cooler.
Utilize Natural Ventilation
Take advantage of cooler evenings and mornings by opening windows to let fresh air in. Create cross-ventilation by opening windows on opposite sides of the house, allowing a natural breeze to flow through.
Seal Leaks and Insulate
Properly sealing leaks around windows, doors, and in the attic can prevent cool air from escaping and hot air from entering. Additionally, adding insulation to your attic can help keep your home cooler by reducing heat transfer from the roof.
Install a Programmable Thermostat
A programmable thermostat allows you to set different temperatures for various times of the day. This can help reduce energy consumption and keep your home cool when needed. Some smart thermostats can even learn your schedule and adjust settings automatically.
Cook Outdoors
Using your oven or stove can significantly increase indoor temperatures. To keep your home cooler, consider grilling outside or using smaller appliances like a microwave or toaster oven during the hottest parts of the day.
Upgrade to Energy-Efficient Appliances
Older appliances can generate a lot of heat. Upgrading to energy-efficient models not only reduces the amount of heat they produce but also lowers your overall energy consumption.
Plant Shade Trees
Strategically planting trees or installing awnings around your home can provide natural shade, significantly reducing heat gain through windows and walls. Deciduous trees are particularly effective as they provide shade in the summer and allow sunlight through in the winter when their leaves fall off.
