When the temperature rises, the first thing you want to do is crank up the air conditioning. To save money on the next energy bill (or to tackle the heat au natural), check out Warner Service’s tricks to keep cool without the air conditioning.
- Use cotton, light-colored bedding and clothes to promote ventilation, but ditch the socks.
- Take cool showers after working out early in the morning or late at night.
- Be smart about the fan. If you have a window unit, face it toward the outside to push hot air out of the room. If you have a ceiling fan, run the blades counter-clockwise.
- Create a makeshift air conditioner using a shallow pan or bowl full of ice. Place it in front of a fan, so the breeze picks up the cold water, creating a cool mist.
- Apply cold compresses to your pressure points at the wrist, neck, elbow, foot, ankle, and behind the knee.
- Invest in long-term improvements, like awnings, planted trees, and insulated window films. It reduces the amount of heat your home absorbs, making your investments worthwhile.
- Turn on the exhaust fan in the kitchen and bathrooms. Exhaust fans pull hot air that rises out of your home.
- Open the windows at night to circulate naturally cool air in your home. During the day, beat the heat by keeping the windows shut and the blinds closed.
- Avoid alcohol and caffeine, which promote dehydration. Instead, drink 8 ounces of water and electrolyte-infused beverages. This is especially helpful before bed to stay hydrated through the night.
- Insulate your home. Insulation is good to keep the heat in during the winter and to keep the heat out during the summer.
- Sleep in the basement. Because heat rises, get to the lowest point of your home for bedtime.
- Turn off the lights, and don't use small electronics. Everything gives off heat, so take advantage of natural light and cooler meals often. It also saves you money on your next energy bill.
- Cook outside. While the weather is nice, break out the grill for the next few meals. This means less use of your stove and oven, which makes your home hotter.
- Close the doors to unused rooms. This prevents the cool air from permeating these areas during the hottest part of the day.
- Chill your sheets. This is the best temperature to get a good night’s sleep, but if you don’t want to lower the thermostat, place the folded sheets and pillowcases in a plastic bag. Put the bag in the freezer for a few hours, and then make up the bed for sweet, cool dreams.
From the bedroom to the kitchen to the basement, your home can keep cool without the air conditioner’s assistance.
If you decide to turn on your air conditioner this summer, contact Warner Service for an HVAC maintenance check-up or download our checklist: