It’s hot, and from now on we can only expect temperatures to stay high. Not everyone has air conditioning or fans to stand in front of all day, so here are some tips to keep your home cool without increasing your electricity bill:
Colours and Fabrics:
White reflects the sun’s rays, helping keep the heat from staying inside the home. Summer is a good time to paint walls, and white is the cheapest and most effective colour against heat. Change curtains, sheets, bedspreads and sofa covers for white, lightweight fabrics... you’ll see how a feeling of freshness will enter your home.
Plants
Having plants outdoors and inside the home is also a good idea. When you water them in the morning or at sunset, you can benefit from the fresh feeling they give off.
Furniture
Remove any non-essential furniture to create a greater sense of space and allow air to enter and circulate better. Move beds away from walls that get sun all day, and you’ll see how the feeling of freshness improves too.
Lower the blinds
Lower the blinds in your home during the sunniest hours so heat does not enter the property, and raise them at sunset, making sure ventilation is cross-flow by opening windows on opposite sides.
Avoid heat sources
Do not leave too many lights on, or use the oven or the stove for long periods. Even the television and other appliances give off heat and could cause the temperature to rise considerably. In addition, you’ll save on electricity bills.
These are some simple tips that, if followed during the hottest months, will help keep your home at an optimal and comfortable temperature, without needing to spend money and energy on air conditioning.