1. Use a programmable thermostat
It's a great way to save energy and money. When you’re not home, you can set the temperature a few degrees higher than usual. Then, when you are getting ready for bed or leaving for work, you can set it back to a cooler temperature.
To use a programmable thermostat effectively, you need to find the right balance between comfort and energy savings. For example, you may want the temperature to be a little cooler when you’re home so that you can stay comfortable, but you don’t want to waste energy by cooling an empty house.
2. Keep your blinds and curtains closed
By keeping your blinds and curtains closed, you can help block out the sun’s rays and keep your home cooler. During the day, keep the window coverings closed on the side of your home that gets the most sun. At night, you can open up the windows to let in a cool breeze.
3. Use awnings and shading
If you have a deck or patio, you can use awnings or shading to create a shaded area where you can enjoy the outdoors without feeling the full force of the sun’s heat.
To use awnings or shading effectively, you need to position them so that they block out the sun’s rays during the times of day when the sun is at its strongest. For example, if you have a west-facing patio, you may want to put up an awning or shading in the afternoon to block out the setting sun.
4. Plant trees and shrubs
Trees and shrubs can provide shade and help cool your home naturally. If you’re planning to plant trees or shrubs, consider their placement carefully. You’ll want to make sure they don’t block your windows or doors, and you’ll also want to consider how they will grow over time.
Make sure to plant trees and shrubs that are native to your area, as they will be better adapted to the local climate and soil conditions.
5. Use a dehumidifier
If you live in an area with high humidity, a dehumidifier can help remove excess moisture from the air and make your home more comfortable. Dehumidifiers can also help prevent mold and mildew growth.
When using a dehumidifier, be sure to empty the water reservoir frequently. Otherwise, the dehumidifier will become less effective and may start to emit musty odors.
6. Take advantage of cross-ventilation
Cross-ventilation is a way of using the wind to naturally cool your home. To take advantage of cross ventilation, open up windows on opposite sides of your home to create a cross breeze.
Cross-ventilation is most effective when the air outside is cooler than the air inside your home. If the temperature outside is higher than the temperature inside, you may want to use fans to help circulate the air.
7. Use fans wisely
Fans can help circulate air and make your home more comfortable, but they won’t actually cool the air. If you’re using fans, be sure to open up windows or doors to allow fresh air to come in.
Ceiling fans are a great way to cool down a room, and they can help reduce your energy consumption. If you have a ceiling fan, be sure to use it in the right direction. In the summer, the blades should rotate counterclockwise to create a cooling breeze.
8. Cook smarter
During the summer, cooking can make your home feel hotter than usual. To keep your kitchen cooler, try to cook smarter.
Avoid using the oven or stove as much as possible. If you do need to use them, be sure to use the exhaust fan to help remove heat and fumes from the kitchen.
In the summer, it’s also a good idea to take advantage of the grill. Grilling is a great way to cook food without heating up your kitchen.
9. Use daylight
During the day, take advantage of natural sunlight to help light and heat your home. Open up curtains and blinds to let in as much light as possible.
In the winter, you can use heavy curtains or blinds to block out the cold air. But in the summer, it’s best to keep them open to let in the cool air.
10. Get new doors and windows that are energy-efficient
Older doors and windows can let in a lot of unwanted heat. If your home has older doors and windows, you may want to consider replacing them with new ones that are more energy-efficient.
Energy-efficient doors and windows can help keep your home cooler in the summer and warmer in the winter. They can also help you save money on your energy bills.
11. Add insulation
Adding insulation to your attic or walls can help keep your home cooler in the summer and warmer in the winter. Insulation helps prevent heat from entering or escaping your home, which can help keep your energy bills down.
The Bottom Line
There are a number of things you can do to keep your home cool during the summer. By taking some simple steps, you can make your home more comfortable and save money on your energy bills.
Looking to Buy New Doors and Windows?
If you're in the market for new doors and windows that are more energy-efficient, be sure to check out DAKO. We offer a wide selection of high-quality doors and windows that are designed to help you save money on your energy bills.
