Summer is time for fun, food and ferociously high cooling bills. It is the dilemma that homeowners battle every season: How do you enjoy the outdoors without letting the heat in your air-conditioned house? Here are some of Warner Service 4 best tips on keeping your home cool without breaking the budget:
1. Use strategy when opening windows. This may seem counter-productive, but it actually works if you do it the right way. Heat rises quickly, especially from noon to 4 p.m. during the summer months so open the windows downstairs for the best ventilation.
Another tip: Do not open all of them, and just crack the windows. You will want to experiment and “tune” your windows based on the temperature and breeze outside. There are a few factors that you will need to take into consideration:
- The temperature and time of day
- Which way the wind is blowing
- Allergies and pollen levels
- How often you and your family will be home
2. Make your house like a mirror. Sunlight is your home’s biggest enemy when it comes to staying cool in the summer, so you will want to do anything you can to reduce and reflect it off your house. You can purchase reflective roof paint or opt for simply closing your drapes and shades whenever your windows are closed.
Homeowners should also consider insulated window coverings, such as a portable screen or a film that helps block a portion of the sun’s visible light and UV rays without blocking visibility. You can enjoy the sunshine from inside without having to suffer through the heat it provides.
3. Insulate your home. The fewer air leaks and more insulation your home has, the easier it will be to keep your house cool. Keeping an insulated home also helps with energy efficiency. If you choose to do this, it is important to not add your own indoor heat to the house. Save using the oven, stove and dishwasher for summer evenings or early mornings. Take advantage of the microwave, toaster oven, air fryer, or cook outdoors. Break out the grill this summer for the good of the cooling bill!
4. Add some shade. Covered porches will help shade your home’s interior because it simply provides a barrier from the heat from the sun. You can also strategically place awnings, trees and plants to shade your home’s exterior. While you are redecorating your home’s exterior, consider installing shutters inside and out. This will help protect against heat as well as add security and protection against bad weather, such as harsh thunderstorms.
During these months, it is OK to take advantage of the warm weather, but that does not mean your air conditioning bill has to take a toll. Instead of opening your windows without reason, crack only the downstairs ones and adjust according to the wind. While you are out, consider purchasing an awning or some new plants for some summer shade. Most of all, keep your house insulated properly, so you can enjoy the sun without letting the heat in your home.
If you need help with installation or have any questions, contact Warner Service today:
