During these hot days of summer, why not try some of these inexpensive tips to cool your home?
Use windows and window coverings to your advantage. Keep all windows, curtains and blinds closed to keep your house cool for as long as possible. If you are home and don’t want all the windows covered, cover them when needed. Dark-colored curtains, roman shades, and even dime-store roller shades can be very effective. Roller shades can block up to 80% solar heat. If the air cools down enough in the evening, open the windows to promote as much air circulation as possible.
Do not add to the heat inside. Use appliances such as irons, washers, and dryers at night or early morning. Use a clothes line to dry clothes. A big source of heat is the stove. Cook outdoors as much as possible. Use a toaster oven for baking. Toaster ovens don’t warm up the kitchen like conventional ovens do. Turn off computers and appliances when not in use.
Change your bulbs. Incandescent light bulbs are heat generators. Switch them for energy-efficient compact fluorescent light bulbs or halogen infrareds. Fluorescent “corkscrew” bulbs contain mercury, so consider the safety risks before putting them in children’s bedrooms, playrooms, or other places where they might break.
Use fans. Place inexpensive portable fans in front of open windows when it cools down inside to bring the cool air inside. Install a ceiling fan if needed. Attic fans also circulate cool air from outside through the house. Use ceiling or room fans even if you have an air conditioner. This way you can set your thermostat higher because the air movement from the fan will help the room feel cooler.
Keep refrigerator well stocked. Refrigerators that are full of food don’t warm up as quickly when the door is opened, so they require less energy to stay cool.
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