The approach of summer brings longer days and bright memories of time spent outdoors with family and friends, whether at the beach or in your backyard. This time of year can also bring back memories of heatstroke, sunburns and feeling like you might actually melt. Before the heat hits, be sure to prepare by stocking up on water, sunscreen and snazzy sunglasses, and then take a look at how you can adapt your home. The following tips can help you in bracing your home for a hot summer so that you can make it a bit cooler as the sun shines down.
First and Foremost, Be Cool
If you have and will be using an air conditioning unit, take the time now to make sure your filter is clean and that the refrigerant level is correct so you do not waste energy when it is being used. Calling a service technician before summer hits will result in a lower check-up cost than needing a emergency call during the heat, and provide you with peace of mind. You may also want to invest in a programmable thermostat to keep your energy costs low this year.
If you do not have an air conditioning unit, you can still stay cool by sealing and caulking windows and doors. Following that, your goal is to circulate air inside your home with fans and strategically opened windows to create a breeze inside your home. You can also install a whole-house fan or ceiling fan (have it rotate counter-clockwise) to take advantage of cooler nighttime temperatures all day long.
Second, Consider Harnessing the Sun’s Power
If you have been thinking about installing solar panels on your roof, act now to get the most out of your panels this summer and throughout the years to come. If not, consider solar window film as an option for keeping your home cooler. Lastly, if you can’t beat the heat, embrace it, by lounging poolside or taking advantage of local parks where you can enjoy the sunshine under the shade of well-established trees.
