Staying cool in the summer heat can be a difficult task. Intense summer heat can make your home less comfortable to be in while raising household energy costs. Here are some simple ways to stay cool and comfortable during the summer.

1. Turn on your fans when air conditioning is in use. Using a fan while the air conditioner is running greatly enhances the cooling effect. While the air conditioner lowers the temperature of the air, fans circulate the cool air throughout the room and house. The boost in air circulation creates a wind chill that allows you to stay cool without having to set the AC unit very low.

2. Try using ice and a fan to stay cool. Set a bowl full of ice in front of a table fan. As the ice melts, the fan will blow cooler air toward you. This hack is great for while you’re working at your desk. You could also do the same thing with a fan on your kitchen counter to stay cool while you’re cooking.

3. Cut back on the use of appliances and lights. Appliances, gaming consoles, computers, and even standard light bulbs heat up your house while they are running, so turn them on as little as possible. Run the washing machine only when you have a full load. Eliminate the heat generated when using the dryer by hanging your clothes outside or around the house to air dry. Avoid using the dishwasher if it is not full. Instead, hand wash dishes in the sink and let them air dry or use a towel. Avoid using the oven and stove to prepare meals. Use the microwave or grill instead. You could also consider eating meals that don’t have to be cooked. Chef salad with julienned turkey and/or ham and deli sandwiches are great options.

4. Thirsty but don’t have any ice? Wrap your beverage of choice with a damp paper towel, then place it in the freezer for about fifteen minutes. Your drink will be chilled to perfection!

5. Eat and work out on your deck or patio in the evening. Once the sun is down, outdoor spaces serve as ideal places to have dinner, do homework, read, etc. all while staying cool and limiting unnecessary AC use (and saves you money!)

6. Nearly 30 percent of unwanted heat enters your house through windows (especially south and west-facing ones). Keep windows closed when you’re not home. Using shades, curtains, blinds, and shutters can reduce indoor room temperatures by as much as 20 degrees. In rooms with a window or portable AC unit; keep the door closed while the AC is running.

7. Take advantage of cool basement air. To do this, shut all the windows except for one on the top floor in the farthest possible south-facing corner. Next, position a box fan in the opened window facing out. Open a basement window in the farthest north-facing corner. The open basement window will allow cooler air in while the upper open window pushes warm air out. Just don’t forget to keep the interior door to your basement open! Enhance the effect by installing a ceiling fan near your basement entrance to promote circulation of cool basement air into the rest of the house.

Efficient Heating & Cooling are experts in high quality home comfort solutions to meet your needs. Contact us today to request an estimate or schedule service.