Simple tricks to keep your home cool and comfortable
Summer heat waves can turn your home into an oven, making it hard to stay comfortable and relaxed. With summer fast approaching, it’s essential to get creative with ways to beat the heat at home to survive the hottest days.
The experts at Vortex Air unveil hacks that actually help you keep your home cool without cranking up the air conditioner.
Fan Positioning
Position fans to create a cross-breeze by placing one fan facing out of a window to push hot air out and another fan facing in to bring cool air inside. This setup enhances airflow and helps lower indoor temperatures more effectively.
Sheet Change
If you’re a hot sleeper, it’s time to change those sheets. Opt for sheets and pillows that are made of cotton, linen, or advertised as cooling technology for a more comfortable slumber. These materials are breathable and help wick away moisture, keeping you cooler at night.
Light Bulbs
Light bulbs can create extra heat in your home. In the hot months, switch to LED bulbs as they emit the least heat. “LED bulbs are more energy-efficient and can help you save on bills, especially if you’re using fans and air-conditioning frequently,” says Vortex Air.
No-Cook Meals
The oven or stove will heat up your house, not to mention you, while you’re standing close to it. Have a few staple no-cook meals like salads, sandwiches, and bowls in your back pocket to make throughout the hottest months. “Knowing no-cook meals is also helpful during power outages caused by energy overuse during heat waves,” adds Vortex Air.
Homemade Air Conditioner
Create a homemade air conditioner by placing a bowl of ice or a frozen water bottle in front of a fan. As the ice melts, the fan will blow cooler air into the room, providing a refreshing breeze at a fraction of the cost of an air conditioner.
Window Control
Keep windows closed during the hottest part of the day and open them at night when the air is cooler. Use thick curtains or blackout shades to block out sunlight and reduce indoor temperatures. “Take the time to understand which windows in your house have the most heat coming through them at certain parts of the day,” say the Vortex Air experts. “Check to see if there are any drafts in your windows and seal them up for the summer so hot air doesn’t seep through your home”.
Natural Shade
Large foliage provides great natural shade and helps keep your house cool. While planting a tree for shade is a long-term solution, you can use this hack last minute by placing large ferns or other big plants on balconies or window sills to block direct sunlight.
Good Timing
Keep track of where the sun hits your home the strongest and close blinds or curtains during those times. Prepare meals by cooking early in the morning or later at night to avoid heating up the house during the hottest part of the day. “When a heat wave comes, you’re not going to want to do anything in the middle of the day. Prepare yourself as much as possible before the peak hours hit your home,” says Vortex Air.