Want a Cooler Summer at Home? Here's What You Can Do

There are things in life that you don't want but can't escape from. Summer is an example. You might resent the heat, but no matter how much you complain, you'll have to endure it - not unless you decide to live on another planet.

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Let's face it. Summer is the season when days are hot and long, while nights being the shortest. But before you paint a frown all over your face, know that the bright shine of the sun on you means tons of adventure outdoors (e.g., beach, mountain climbing, etc.). Add the Fourth of July celebrations in the mix, and there may not be a better time to spend quality time with your family or even do picnics than these days.

But watch out; that blistering heat can be a killer. At the top of your list are dehydration, summer stings, skin rashes, and increased house temperature. Indeed, this season also hosts illnesses. CDC data shows 2,917 Americans have perished during summer due to heat exposure. 

The good news is you can tone down the heat and make the most of summer in several ways. Take a look at these steps to keep you and your house cool against the scorching heat of summer. These steps are cost-efficient, too.

Cover Your Windows

In the heat of summer, you may have a traditional solution: cranking up machines such as your air conditioner so that you'll stay cool. The problem is this option is one expensive proposition. In the long run, it will wreak havoc on your monthly power bills.

Instead, why not have a look at the sunshine portals of your home? You should focus on your windows. Consider methods to cover them. No doubt, window treatments that include blinds and curtains are a great help. Sun-blocking binds can keep the heat of the sun out. Keeping sunshine out can lower your electricity bill. Plus, there are plenty of window treatments to consider: plantation shutters, blinds, lined drapes, shades.

Top Up Your Insulation

Another best solution to block the heat that goes inside your home is by topping up your ceiling insulation. It's a tall order, but installing insulation on your ceiling means cool air won't be going out of your abode. Think about it. If your ceiling insulation is more than 15 years old, chances are drafts and gaps multiply like crazy. So make sure to check on the insulation.

Moreover, you may want to take a closer look at your roofing material if you're serious about keeping things cool. For one, a solid polycarbonate roof is sturdier than most traditional roofing (G.I. sheets), and they're more heat-resistant. So you can rest assured you're not letting the sun's heat fry you from within.

Doors Closed, Gaps Sealed

Closing doors to your rooms and sealing gaps around your doors or windows to keep cool air is another great hack. Moreover, try using draught excluders to ensure cool air will not escape. These are some basic solutions to having a cool temperature inside your home.

Go All Out During the Evening

Try having a recreational solution for your summer-heat problems, such as going out during the evenings. It is ideal for closing your windows and staying inside during daylight. But it gets cooler during the evenings. This is why opening your house up should be your interest to make your home cool.

Get Creative

Do you have a broken AC? No worries. All you have to do is to be clever and use some hacks to beat the summer heat. One way to do this is by positioning a pan or bowl of ice in front of your fan. Now, you have a cold mist machine real quick. However, take note that this can only be a temporary solution.

Decide What to Wear

Indeed, what you wear can have a huge role in how you feel. Clothes trap heat, so in summer, nix the satin and the silk. Instead, don cotton fabrics. Such clothing should be light and loose. Being super breathable, this will help your body feel cool.

Check Your Light Bulbs

Try checking possible sources of heat inside your home, such as incandescent light bulbs. This light source also is a heat source. You can switch to energy-saving light bulbs such as LEDs to get rid of potential heat sources inside your home.

With these ideas, you don't have to worry about overheating even inside your home. Plus, not only do you cool your home, but you also give Mother Earth a protecting hand. So take the necessary steps to ensure that your home is ready for the summer heat.