Summer is a fantastic season to spend time enjoying the great outdoors. From diverse sporting activities, enjoying nature, and various functions β summer had it all. However, due to increased temperatures as a result of climate change, there is a need to combat the extreme heat and that sun that is mercilessly heating our homes. This guide will provide you with some tips for keeping cool this summer. You will be able to make your home a cooler and more enjoyable space without even breaking a sweat.
Turn off your electricals
To start with, the majority of people do not realise that is a correlation between the number of appliances that are using electricity and increased heat in your home. As such, it is essential to turn off any electrical appliances that are not in use. This will include; lights, television sets, plug-in power adapters, computers, and any other heat sources. In essence, anything electrical in your home ultimately turns in heat. Running too many electrical appliances plus the increased temperatures can quickly make your home hot and uncomfortable. As such, any electrical appliances that are not in use should be turned off at the wall.
Keep the heat out
Secondly, it is important to regulate the temperature inside of your home by keeping external heat out of your home. Keep the heat out of your home by simply keeping windows and window treatments closed before the sun hits your property in the morning. This is especially important for windows that are situated on the sides of your houses exposed to the sun. You can also consider regulating internal temperature by making use of awnings. Moreover, you can cleverly and strategically make use of trees and bushes that offer great options for providing shade in summer. When temperatures drop in the evening you can then open your home back up again. This will be essential to allow the cool breeze to circulate.
Get the air moving
Any form of moving air will significantly make a huge impact in reducing temperatures in your home and creating a cooling effect. One of the best ways to get the air moving is to cleverly align your doors and windows. With this in mind, open up the home in the evening when temperatures have reduced thereby allowing air to easily flow from each room. Another equally effective way to get the air in your home moving is the use of fans. Ceiling fans, in particular, are an excellent and energy-efficient way to get the air moving and cool your home.
Strategic landscaping
Nature can also play a crucial part in helping you keep your home cool. However, it is important to keep in mind that nature is not an instant solution to your cooling needs. Strategically placed trees can help you keep direct sunlight and heat from direct contact with windows and roofs. In addition, plants that are placed under windows play a pivotal role in absorbing some of the heat thereby help keep your home cool.
Insulate your home
With the right type of insulation, you can keep your home warm during the cold spells, and more importantly, cool during the warm weather. Consult with professionals to ensure you get the most ideal type of insulation and that it is installed properly. Insulation and glazing of windows will help you keep the heat out and reduce the temperature in your home.
Reduce your air conditioner load
If you own an air conditioning unit then ensure that is it serviced and running smoothly. Moreover, do all you can to have your air conditioner functioning effectively so as to reduce the load. Only use your air conditioner when necessary and turn off the system when not in use.
