Keeping the hot weather out all summer without causing your bills to skyrocket can be tough. However, there are still a few things you can do to keep the temperature down throughout the hottest time of the year.
Don’t leave the lights on.
Not only does this up your electricity bill, but it also causes your house to get warmer. Light bulbs produce heat and when on for long periods of time, they can begin warming up rooms.
Keep the sun from getting in.
By reducing the levels of sunlight that get in through your windows, you’re also helping keep hot air out. Try using reflective windows, blinds, or curtains to keep excess sunlight from getting in and warming your home.
Use ice!
Putting ice in front of a fan can actually act as a form of air conditioning. You’ll have to pay attention to the ice as it melts, but this method is both cheap and incredibly effective.
Use light-colored decor.
Light furniture, paint, and decoration can help reflect sunlight (and therefore the sun’s warmth) out of your home. On the other hand, darker furnishings can instead absorb the heat and further heat up your house.
Try cross ventinating.
You can cross ventilate your home by opening windows on both ends of your house, allowing for air to efficiently flow in and out.
Open your windows at night.
If you are in a safe neighborhood, try cracking your windows at night to let the cool night air in before the hot sun comes around.
Cook outside when you can!
Cooking with your oven indoors means a lot of escaped heat that fills your kitchen and the rest of your home. Ovens and stovetops are really just big heaters. The other option (if you can’t cook outdoors) is to simply cook early in the morning or late in the evening when everything cools down outside.
Plant some trees!
Not only is this good for the environment, but it can really help keep your house nice and cool during hot weather. By planting the trees strategically, you can shade your home so it’s out of the sun.
