July is the unofficial start of our vacation season, which also coincides with an end to border closures, a re-opening of businesses and an increase in vaccinations, giving families more ways to enjoy summer activities than they’ve had for some time.
With the next two months being our warmest times of the year, keeping comfortable in our homes is important for our health and safety. So, how do we keep our houses as cool as possible when it is hot and humid outside? Here is a list of some suggestions you may want to consider:
- Close windows and drapes/blinds during the warmest parts of the day. Much of the sunlight that shines on windows turns into heat within homes. Blocking these rays with closed drapes can be highly effective in reducing internal temperatures.
- Avoid using ovens and clothes dryers during the day. Hanging out clothes, towels and linens and cooking outside as much as possible can minimize heat generation.
- Changing incandescent lights for LED lights or energy-saving bulbs can reduce interior heat and save electricity.
- Placing a large bowl of ice at an angle to a fan can blow cold air into a room and provide relief particularly if you are close to the air flow.
- Set ceiling fans to the summer, counterclockwise direction.
- Hot air rises. If you have a bathroom fan, run it at its highest speed to draw the hot air outside. You should also check the fan to make sure it is clear of dust.
- Dehumidifiers can make air thinner by reducing water during humid days. If you have a digital version that shuts on and off to maintain a certain level, set at 60% humidity.
- Open windows at night when the temperature drops to introduce cooler air and to create cross-breezes between rooms.
- Install window fans that can exhaust warmer air during the day and blow in cooler air at night.
The above list provides quick and simple ways to keep your homes more comfortable during the summer. Upgrading your homes’ insulation and getting a professional assessment for additional improvements can make an even bigger impact. At Scotia Fuels, are always committed to your family’s comfort and safety. If you’d like to find out more about keeping cooler in the heat, we’d love to talk to you. Drop us a line at https://scotiafuels.com/contact-us/ or even better, call us at 902-453-2121.