Summer means you’re not paying to heat your home, but you’re probably paying just as much to keep it cool and comfortable. Avoid the high bills with these hacks to keep your home cool, even on the hottest days!
Keep your blinds closed – this prevents unwanted heat and can lower indoor temperatures by up to 20 degrees. Better yet, invest in blackout curtains to block sunlight!
Shut your doors – Close off unused rooms during the hottest times of the day to prevent cool air from seeping in. Remember to open the doors at night to allow cooler air to flow naturally.
Get smart with your bedding – Stay away from flannel sheets and fleece blankets in the summer and opt for cotton! It breathes easier and stays cooler longer.
Reverse your ceiling fans – You may not realize it, but fans should rotate counter-clockwise in the summer. Set fans at a higher speed to create a wind-chill effect, making you “feel” cooler!
Turn on all fans – including your bathroom fans and the exhaust fan in your kitchen! These will push the hot air from showering or cooking out of your house.
Start grilling – Cooking your meals using an oven or stove is guaranteed to make your house hotter. Take your cooking outside and fire up the grill!
Dehumidify – Utilize a dehumidifier to start the process of lowering the humidity. This will help you feel cooler!
Let the night air in – If you live in an area that gets cooler at night, open your windows while you sleep. Better yet, open windows on opposite sides of your home to create cross-ventilation.
Plant foliage – this is a long-term plan, but you’ll reap the benefits for years to come! Plant trees and shrubs in locations where the sun beats down into your home.
Utilize your thermostat – program it to reduce the temperature a few degrees right before you’re scheduled to come home. This will ensure your home is comfortable when you get home, without wasting energy keeping it cool all day!
Courtesy of Keller Williams Greater Hartford
