Air conditioning is a great choice to cool down your home. However, there are many AC-free, effective tips to cool down your home that even those with air conditioning should consider. If you are trying to beat the heat, these tips can make a big difference.
- Make sure your ceiling fan is set to the correct setting for summer. Did you know that your ceiling fan has multiple settings? Most people don’t and changing it to the correct setting is a game changer. A fan moving counterclockwise will push air down and make you feel cool. In the winter, change it back to clockwise and run on low, which will gently recirculate heat.
- Close your windows. If the outside temperature is hotter than the inside temperature, don’t let that warm air in.
- Block out the sun’s rays by closing your curtains. However, we recommend going one step further and using blackout blinds. Blackout blinds are a must-have for many reasons. Not only will they stop the sun’s hot rays from heating your home, they also keep your room dark in the morning so you can enjoy your well-deserved Saturday sleep-in. Opt for white or a neutral colour to reflect the sun’s light.
- Don’t run major appliances during the day – especially the oven. If you prefer warm meals, use a slow cooker, microwave or better still, head outside to the BBQ. As for other appliances, run your dishwasher and washing machine in the evening. In addition to producing less heat during the day, many utility companies have preferable off-peak rates.
- Stop using incandescent bulbs. If you haven’t made the switch for environmental reasons, here is another good reason to say good-bye. Incandescent bulbs create light by heating a filament and most of its energy is wasted as heat. Opt for CFL or LED bulbs instead. LED bulbs may be more expensive than incandescent bulbs, but they last much longer, saving you money in the long run.
Bonus tips to stay cool for a good night’s sleep: Cotton sheets, or other breathable fabrics, are the way to go and if the night time temperature is lower than your room, open the window and let the night breeze in. If you have a hot water bottle, fill it with icy water to provide you with relief. Remember, heat rises, so the coolest place to sleep is the lowest place in your home. The couch downstairs may not be as nice as your mattress but the air temperature may be much more comfortable.
