Ah, summer—the season of sunshine, outdoor adventures, and unfortunately, sweltering heat and profuse sweating. As the temperature starts to climb, keeping our homes cool becomes a top priority. After all, who wouldn’t want to come home to a cool, refreshing, and relaxing oasis after spending time out in the sun? We know that finding the perfect balance between comfort and energy efficiency is often a struggle faced by homeowners. That’s why in this article, we’ll dive into the art of cooling your home and explore practical tips and strategies that anyone can implement to create a cool and inviting space.
Why Keeping Your Home Cool In Summer Is Important
Keeping your home cool is not just about comfort and preference. Every year, the summers keep getting hotter and the heat can cause damage to your home that you may not even spot right away. Some damaging effects that this sweltering heat can inflict upon your home include:
#1 Fading and Discoloration: Prolonged exposure to heat and sunlight can cause fading and discoloration of various materials in your home, such as furniture, flooring, upholstery, and even artwork. UV rays can break down dyes and pigments, resulting in a dull and faded appearance over time.
#2 Deterioration of Building Materials: High temperatures can accelerate the deterioration of building material and can cause them to warp, leak, crack, or dry out.
#3 Roof Damage: The roof of your home bears the brunt of the sun’s heat. Over time, this continuous exposure can lead to the breakdown of roofing materials, such as shingles or tiles, and make them brittle, crack, or curl.
#4 Increased Energy Consumption: Heat can force your cooling system to work harder to maintain a comfortable temperature. This increased demand for cooling leads to higher energy consumption and, subsequently, higher utility bills.
#5 Electrical System Overload: Excessive heat can strain electrical systems, especially when air conditioning units are running continuously.
#6 Mold and Mildew Growth: Heat and humidity create an ideal environment for mold and mildew growth. These not only pose health risks but can also cause structural damage and unpleasant odors.
#7 HVAC System Strain: Heat places a significant burden on your HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning) system. Continuous operation in hot conditions can lead to increased wear and tear, reduced efficiency, and potential system failures.
How To Cool Your Home Indoors
#1 Use the right thermostat settings
According to experts, the ideal thermostat setting during the summer is at 78 degrees Fahrenheit. This is the sweet spot that’ll give you the balance and allow you to cool your home to a comfortable level without making your electric bill skyrocket and burning a hole in your pocket. Of course, adjusting it by a few degrees wouldn’t hurt, but remember that the goal is to cool your house down and not turn it into the North Pole.
#2 Seal gaps (doors, windows, etc)
Unsealed gaps around doors, windows, and other openings can allow warm air to enter your home, making it harder to cool efficiently. Inspect these areas for drafts and apply weatherstripping or caulking to seal any gaps. This helps prevent hot air from infiltrating your home and keeps the cool air indoors.
#3 Use window treatments to block out the heat
Window treatments like blinds, curtains, or shades can effectively block out sunlight and reduce the heat entering your home. Opt for light-colored or reflective materials to deflect heat. Keep curtains or blinds closed during the hottest parts of the day to prevent heat buildup. Consider installing blackout curtains for maximum heat reduction.
#4 Change your lightbulbs
Traditional incandescent light bulbs emit a significant amount of heat, contributing to the overall temperature of your home. Switch to energy-efficient LED or CFL lightbulbs, which generate less heat while providing ample illumination. This small change can have a noticeable impact on reducing heat production indoors.
#5 Block the heat
Strategically block or redirect heat sources within your home. Close doors to rooms that are not in use to prevent warm air from spreading throughout the house. Consider using door draft stoppers to block hot air from entering under doors. In areas with excessive heat, use portable fans or install ceiling fans to circulate air and create a cooling breeze.
How To Cool Your Home Outdoors
#1 Install a misting system
Misting systems create a refreshing mist that cools the surrounding air, making your outdoor space more comfortable during hot summer days. These systems can be installed on patios, decks, or other outdoor areas, providing a fine mist that lowers the ambient temperature.
#2 Install fan(s)
Outdoor fans are a great addition to your patio or deck. They help circulate the air, creating a gentle breeze that aids in evaporative cooling. Look for weather-resistant fans designed for outdoor use and position them strategically to maximize airflow.
#3 Build a gazebo
A gazebo provides a shaded outdoor area where you can relax and enjoy the cool breeze. Constructing a gazebo in your backyard offers a comfortable retreat from the direct heat of the sun. Choose materials that provide ample shade and consider adding curtains or screens for additional privacy and protection from insects.
#4 Add a water feature
Water features, such as fountains or small ponds, can contribute to a cooling effect in your outdoor space. The sound of running water can create a soothing atmosphere while the evaporation of water helps lower the surrounding temperature. Additionally, the visual appeal of a water feature adds charm and tranquility to your outdoor setting and it could even help increase your home’s value!
#5 Plant trees for shade
Strategic landscaping with shade-providing trees can significantly cool outdoor areas. Planting trees near windows, patios, or outdoor seating areas can offer natural shade, reducing the impact of direct sunlight and creating a cooler microclimate.
Final Thoughts
By implementing these tips for cooling your home indoors and outdoors, you can beat the summer heat and create a comfortable living space both inside and outside your house. With the right thermostat settings, proper insulation, and the addition of shade-providing elements, you can stay cool and enjoy the summer months to the fullest. Stay refreshed and make the most of your home, even on scorching hot day