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At Primary Residential Mortgage, Inc., we know that keeping your home comfortable in the summer heat can get pricey. We want to help you stay cool this summer without sending your energy bill through the roof.
While air conditioning can be necessary, there are plenty of steps you can take to limit its use. Check out the tips below for affordable ways to keep your home comfortable when temperatures rise.
1. Keep air circulating
Keeping air moving can keep your home stay comfortable even if the temperature doesn’t drop. Make sure to switch your ceiling fans to rotate counter clockwise and check all your air filters at the beginning of summer. You can also plug in a few extra standing fans and crack the windows to let in cool air when the temperature drops in the evening.
2. Check your windows
The more you can do to keep heat out in the first place, the better. Your windows can make a huge impact. While it’s nice to see the sunshine, you’re better off keeping blinds closed during the heat of the day to keep extra sunlight from heating up your whole home. To take it one step further, install blackout curtains for extra insulation.
And if your windows are older, consider replacing them with more energy efficient options.
3. Avoid using large appliances in the middle of the day
Large appliances produce a lot of excess heat. When possible, use your clothes washer, dryer and dishwasher at night so they don’t heat up the house when it’s already hot in the middle of the day.
4. Shade the outside of your home
We all know the relief of walking from the bright sun into the shade. It’s no surprise that keeping your home shaded can go a long way. Plant some trees to shade your home or install awnings for a more immediate solution.
5. Change your cooking habits
Summer is a great time to switch to light, easy-to-prepare meals. When possible, eat things like sandwiches, fresh vegetables, smoothies, wraps and salads that require no cooking at all.
If you do cook, try to take it outside to the grill or prepare things that cook quickly on the stovetop.
6. Stay hydrated
Drinking plenty of water helps your body regulate its temperature. Remember you may need to drink more when the temperatures rise.
7. Focus on sleeping areas
Heat can get especially unbearable if it keeps you from sleeping. Swap out your bedding for breathable fabrics like cotton to make it easier to stay cool. You could also consider getting a smaller, portable air conditioner for the bedroom to keep that space cool without running AC for the whole house.