Summer is here, and with it comes the sweltering heat. Maintaining a temperate indoor environment during the summer is essential for your comfort and well-being. Not only can high temperatures make your home uncomfortable and unpleasant, but they can also lead to other problems such as mold, mildew, and dust mites. By taking the necessary steps to keep your home cool, you can avoid these issues and have an enjoyable and safe space. However, many homeowners don’t know where to start or what to do to ensure their home is temperate all year round. If you’re in need of advice, read on for some tips on keeping your home cool during the summer.
How can you keep your home cool during the summer?
Choosing the right thermostat setting for summer can make a big difference in keeping your home cool during this hot season. Keeping it set at around 78 degrees Fahrenheit is usually recommended, as this temperature keeps energy costs down without making you feel too warm. If you have central air conditioning, setting the fan on the auto mode will evenly distribute cool air throughout your house and prevent hotspots from developing. When you aren’t home, you can raise the temperature or turn your HVAC system off to conserve energy.
Utilizing ceiling fans and portable fans are two of the most effective ways to maintain comfort and airflow during the summer months. Ceiling fans circulate air around a room, making it feel cooler without actually using your HVAC to lower the temperature. They also move warm air up away from people in a room, creating a cooling effect on their skin. Portable fans can be placed anywhere you need additional airflow in order to cool down hot spots in your home or add more ventilation when there are windows that cannot be opened.
You should reduce the use of heat-generating appliances during the daytime as well. Heat-generating appliances like ovens, washers and dryers, dishwashers, and other electronics all put off a lot of heat when in use. During hot days, this additional heat can cause temperatures inside your home to soar beyond what you would like them to be.
What other factors can affect your home’s indoor temperature?
Now that you know how to keep your home cooler this summer, let’s talk about some of the other factors that can have an impact on your home’s indoor temperature. For example, cracks and crevices in your windows and doors can create air leaks, which let in outdoor air, moisture, and other contaminants. The best way to handle this issue is by inspecting your windows regularly and sealing any flaws with caulk or weatherstripping immediately so they don’t become worse. Severe damage may require professional repair or replacement.
If you want to make your HVAC system more efficient, then you should think about upgrading to a smart thermostat. They can be programmed to automatically adjust the temperature based on your schedule and preferences, which can limit your energy usage and save you money. Some models also provide you with valuable insights into your energy usage. They can track how much energy you use and when, so you can optimize your energy usage to be as eco-friendly as possible, which can noticeably lower your home’s carbon footprint.
Overall, following these tips for keeping your home cool during the summer can help reduce energy costs, improve comfort, and extend the life of your air conditioning system. With the right combination of products and practices, you can enjoy a cool home without spending a fortune. Some options to consider include setting your thermostat at the ideal temperature, using fans to circulate air, and avoiding the use of heat-producing appliances. You can further ensure your comfort by sealing air leaks and upgrading to a smart thermostat. Follow this advice and you’ll be comfortable at home all year round.