In summer, sometimes all you can think about is how to stay cool. While you could crank up the AC, there are other, more energy-efficient options. You’ll be surprised how easy it is to keep your home cool naturally.
Before trying any of these tips, check on the insulation in your home. If it’s too old, you could be wasting time and money trying to keep your home cool. A spray foam contractor can quickly assess if your home’s insulation is adequate.
Change Your Sheets
Stay comfortable at night by swapping out your winter bed sheets for a more breathable option. Cotton is the perfect summer option. Opt for a thread count between 500 and 800 to maximize soft texture with loose weaving. Then enjoy as you stay cool all night long.
Create Cooling Pressure
The way you open your windows matters. Optimize the amount of cool airflow entering your home at night by strategically opening your windows. Since heat rises, you’ll want to open the top section of windows on the downwind side of your house while opening the bottom section of windows on the upwind side. No wind to work with? Create your own by placing a box fan facing out on the top section of windows.
Close the Blinds
Windows can increase the heat in your home by 30%. Block that unwanted temperature increase by keeping your blinds closed during the day. This is especially important for south- or west-facing windows since they receive the most solar radiation. Closed blinds on those windows could lower your home temperature by 20 degrees. If your current blinds aren’t blocking enough sun, switch them out for blackout curtains.
Staying cool at home during the summer months doesn’t have to be challenging. A few simple changes can keep temperatures down during the hottest months of the year.