When summer temperatures begin to bear down on you, you may remember that you forgot to get ready for the heat before it actually arrived. While its best to prepare for those hot days before summer is upon you, its never too late to make some changes for more comfortable days inside. It doesnt hurt to work on lowering the electricity bill a bit while staying cool either.
Invest in Heating and Air Maintenance
The very first task on your list for preparing for summer temperatures should be to contact your heating and air conditioner experts. Have them thoroughly check out your unit even if you havent been having any problems. They can make sure that your air conditioner is running optimally, which will help your home stay cooler all summer long. It will also help your electricity bill to stay down. And dont forget to keep the filter changed out in your unit regularly.
Invest in Fans
Fans really do help when youre fighting the heat waves of summer. Try placing one at either end of your home with your interior doors open. This helps to create a draft and circulate the cool air. Also, ceiling fans are excellent investments. Many can turn in either direction that you choose. One direction will blow cool air down toward you while the other will pull hot air up toward the ceiling. Inexpensive, regular fans work just fine.
Invest in Insulation
A little on the costly side, insulation is something that some homeowners shy away from. However, making certain that your entire home, particularly if you live in an older house, is properly insulated can make a huge difference in your inside temperature. Adequate insulation can also keep your electric bill at a reasonable rate both in the summer and winter. If you arent sure whether your home is insulated or not, get a professional to check it out.
Invest in Window Cover
Dont underestimate the effectiveness of both inside and outside window coverings. Screens on the outside can help to keep out solar heat as well as bugs and pests. Blinds or shades also keep out the hot summer rays. Some varieties are more heavy duty than others, which will keep out more heat. Also, curtains help tremendously. You can even invest in black out curtains which nearly eliminate all light that comes in, and therefore the warm temperatures, as well.
Invest in Foliage
Outside foliage, such as trees and shrubs, help keep your home shaded and, therefore, helps it to remain cooler, as well. The larger the trees, the more shade it provides. However, even small trees and shrubs offer some relief.
Keeping your home cool in the summer can be quite the difficult task. However, it is possible to not only remain comfortable while the temperature warms up but also to save a ton of money on your electric bill. Maintaining your heating and air unit and using common sense methods can help you stay cool all summer long.
