Ways to Beat the Heat at Home

As temperatures heat up, keeping cool at home can seem like an uphill battle. We have many clever and cost-effective strategies that will help you weather this heatwave without breaking a sweat (or your budget). From clever hacks to straightforward adjustments, beating the heat has never been so easy.

Keep Curtains and Blinds Closed

Your windows act like thermal magnifying glasses, amplifying sunlight into your living space. By keeping curtains and blinds closed during peak sunlight hours, you can drastically reduce indoor temperatures. Blackout or thermal blinds may provide the greatest heat-blocking capabilities. Open them after sunset to let in cool night air.

Use Your HVAC Solutions

Leveraging your Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) system can be an indispensable asset for comfort in the home. Start by conducting regular checks to make sure it remains functional and at peak condition. Clean or replace air filters frequently to improve airflow and efficiency, and set your thermostat accordingly so as to not overwork the system and increase energy costs. If you live in an especially hot area, investing in a programmable thermostat could be your answer. HVAC solutions are invaluable tools during summer, be sure to utilize them fully.

Cook Wisely

Cooking can inadvertently raise the temperature in your home, making it feel warmer than it actually is. To mitigate this additional heat source, try shifting your cooking routine during cooler times of the day, like early morning or late evening, for maximum effectiveness. Using appliances like slow cookers, microwaves, or electric grills that produce less heat compared to ovens or stovetops. Better yet, bring your culinary adventures outdoors by grilling on the barbecue instead of in your living space. Cold meals such as salads and sandwiches offer both a refreshing taste as well as cooling the kitchen space down. Simply by changing your cooking habits, you can keep your home cooler during those scorching summer months.

Reflect the Heat

Reflecting heat away from your home can be an effective strategy for staying cool during summer. Install reflective window films or use blinds and curtains with reflective properties as one way of accomplishing this goal. These materials are designed to reflect sunlight away, decreasing the amount of heat entering your home. Furthermore, investing in a cool roof (designed to reflect more light and absorb less heat) can significantly lower the temperature inside. Incorporating these strategies can create an energy-efficient living environment.

Shade With Indoor Plants

Indoor plants not only add aesthetic value, they can help cool your home by absorbing heat and releasing moisture into the air. Large leafy plants like ferns and palms offer natural shade while smaller succulents and aloe vera provide cooling relief. Furthermore, because plants absorb carbon dioxide while producing oxygen they can help improve air quality. Why not start an indoor garden to help keep your home comfortable this summer?

Beat the Heat at Home: Tips for Staying Cool

With these smart tips in your arsenal, you should be well prepared to beat the heat without turning your home into an oven. Remember that even small changes can make a significant impact. Hydrate, shade, and fan your way toward creating a cooler living space.