There always tends to be a few wonderful days in spring in which the weather is perfect, but this can quickly transition into the unbearable heat of summer. For those that are ready to take a few steps to stay cool this summer, here are some ideas to keep cool and comfortable in and out of the home.
Unplug Unused Electronics
Even when devices are turned off, they will often generate heat. This is especially true of modern electronics that tend to keep a constant supply running to a warm battery or mother board. It is important to unplug devices in the office as well as at home to save money and cut down on cooling costs. According to the EPA, some of the worst offenders when it comes to energy consumption and heat production with these phantom loads include laptops, countertop appliances, printers, and speakers. Taking a little extra time to run heat-producing appliances at night instead of the day will also help to dissipate heat.AC Summer Prep
An AC unit is often one of those devices that no one gives a second thought about until they are no longer working, but turning on the AC for the first time will put a tremendous amount of stress on the system. Yearly AC maintenance is extremely important to keep these devices running smoothly and efficiently. Professional yearly maintenance from companies like Summers & Smith Cooling & Heating in Newmarket includes lubing moving parts, checking on running temperatures, checking coolant levels, and inspecting filters and ducts to prevent unwanted smells.Avoid Ovens and Ranges
Few things are going to bring up the temperature within a home as quickly as ovens and indoor ranges. Not only will the temperature within the kitchen shoot up by a few degrees, the entire climate control system will struggle to keep up. It is important during the summer months to explore other cooking options to avoid indoor ovens and ranges. When cooking hot meals cannot be avoided, families should look to options such as outdoor grills and slow cooking crockpots to cut back on the heat.Strategize with Windows
Windows can play a large factor in either keeping a house stuffy and uncomfortable or cool and well-ventilated. The key concept is to trap cool air inside during the day and let warmer air circulate at night. Unless there is a strong cool wind, windows should be kept shut and curtains closed when direct sunlight hits the window. At night, the windows should be opened once again to allow any bottled-up hot air to escape.It is possible to keep a home relatively cool and comfortable, even when the warm summer months hit those triple digits. A little preemptive planning may be all that is needed to keep both the energy bills and the temperature down.
