It happens every year. I complain about the cold and wish for summer… until summer gets here and it’s sweltering.
During Pennsylvania’s humid summers, our family’s favorite spot is our pool, where we can enjoy the sun without being uncomfortable. But not every house, apartment or condo has a pool, which is why I’ve gathered some tips I like to use to keep my family cool.
Did you know windows play a huge part in keeping your home warm in winter and cool in summer? Read on to learn how to make the most out of your windows, and other ways to keep your house cool in the summer.
Seal gaps
Warm and cold air flows freely through house gaps, which is why sealing those gaps can keep your house cool and help you save on your energy bill. Check your windows, doors, crawl spaces and any recessed lights for gaps and use weather stripping, caulk and a door sweep to trap warm air.
Use the power of window treatments
I love how versatile window treatments are. They dress up a room, keep harsh sun rays out, give you added privacy and help keep your home insulated. Honeycomb shades and heavy draperies are best at keeping warm air outside, however, all window treatments offer some level of insulation.
Put an insulation film over your windows
Windows are a big place in your home where air flows, pulling in more heat in the summer and creating drafts in the winter. Adding an insulation film to your windows helps insulate your home while still letting sunlight through.
Get a programmable thermostat to save money
A programmable thermostat is the best way to keep your house cool only when you need it. If you leave the house during certain hours of the day, program your thermostat to run air conditioning only during the hours you are home. Doing so will cut down on your energy costs, giving you a great return on investment.
Check the size of your air conditioner
If your air conditioner is too big for the room, it can waste energy and not be as effective as it could be. When an AC unit is oversized, it cools the room quickly, however, it leaves more humidity in a room than a proper-sized unit would. You can also identify a large unit if it has very short cooling cycles.
Inspect your air-conditioning unit
Performing regular maintenance on your AC unit is a great way to keep your house cool and your bills low.
To inspect your unit, you’ll need to:
Check the air filter and replace it if it is dirty
Clean your vents
Make sure the belt is not cracked or sagging
You can also hire a maintenance professional to give your unit a closer look.
Use fans efficiently
Fans are a great way to cycle cool air through your home, and when used effectively, can make your home more comfortable during summer. When run counter-clockwise, ceiling fans are effective at pulling cool air up. Your bathroom exhaust fan is also handy in cooling your house down, as it helps expel the warm air that rises. Additionally, a duct-booster fan helps draw more cool air into your home.
Summer is more fun when you are comfortable, and you deserve to enjoy all the best parts of the season. If you want to learn more about how window treatments can lower your home’s temperature, email me at Jessica@3rdGenBlinds.com.