Summer can be a wonderful time of year for fun and sun, but when the heat rises, it can also be challenging to keep calm and comfortable. When the weather is stifling hot, finding ways to stay cool without breaking the bank can be a real struggle. This is especially true if you don't have access to air conditioning or you're trying to be more mindful of your AC usage to save money on your energy bill. This article provides some tips and tricks to cool your home when the weather is unbearably hot so you can stay comfortable and beat the heat without sacrificing your budget.
Use Fans
One simple way to cool your home is to use fans both indoors and outdoors. Fans help circulate the air in the room and create a breeze to help you feel cooler. You can try placing a fan near an open window or set up a cross breeze by placing two fans on opposite sides of a room. Additionally, you can place a bowl of ice water in front of the fan for an even cooler breeze.
Install energy-efficient Windows
When closing the blinds isn’t enough, it’s good to consider energy-efficient windows. These windows are designed to prevent heat transfer in or out of your home, so the cool from your AC stays in while the heat from outside stays out. As these windows grow increasingly cheaper, it’s worth looking into how difficult it would be to install them this year.
Use Lighter Bedding and Clothing
Switching to lighter bedding and clothing can help you feel more comfortable during hot weather. Choose sheets and blankets from lightweight materials like cotton or linen and opt for a lighter-colored outfit made from natural fibers like cotton. These fabrics are breathable and allow for better airflow, which can help you feel cooler and more comfortable in warmer weather.
Install a Programmable Thermostat
Installing a programmable thermostat is another way to keep your home cool without breaking the bank. This type of thermostat allows you to set different temperature schedules for other times of the day, so you can ensure that your home is cool when you need it to be without wasting energy or money when you don't. As long as you do not need air conditioning repair, you can save money on your energy bill without sacrificing comfort by programming your thermostat to raise the temperature a few degrees during the day when you're not home.
Create Shade
Finally, creating shade can help keep your home cool by blocking out the sun's rays. Planting trees or installing awnings or sunshades outside of your home can help block the sun's rays and keep your home cooler. Additionally, if you have a patio or outdoor space, you can create shade by installing a pergola or shading structure that can help block the sun and keep your outdoor space cooler.
In conclusion, there are many ways to keep your home cool when the weather is stifling. From using fans and closing blinds to switching to lighter bedding and clothing, there are many steps you can take to beat the heat without sacrificing your budget. Additionally, installing a programmable thermostat and creating shade outside your home can help keep things cool and comfortable during hot weather. By making these changes, you can stay cool and comfortable all summer long.
