Summer is a great time to get outside and enjoy the sunshine. But when temperatures soar, it can be hard to stay cool in the sweltering heat, leading to overheating, dehydration, and exhaustion. On top of that, high energy bills from running the air conditioner can take a big chunk out of your budget. Fortunately, there are plenty of ways to beat the heat and keep cool without breaking the bank.
1. Upgrade and Maintain Your Air Conditioner
Upgrading your air conditioner is one of the most effective ways to stay cool during summer. If you’re using an older model, it may be worth investing in a newer one. Newer models are much more efficient and can help lower your energy bills. Look for air conditioners with an Energy Star rating, as these are the most efficient models on the market. Additionally, consider investing in a smart thermostat, which can help you monitor and control your air conditioner’s performance from anywhere with an internet connection.
In addition to upgrading your AC unit, you should also make sure it is properly maintained. One of the most important things that you can do is get a professional to change the air filter regularly, which helps keep your unit clean and efficient. You should also make sure that all of its components are in good working order, such as the coils, fans, and condensers. Sometimes, these components can wear out or become clogged due to dirt and debris, impacting the cooling power of your unit.
2. Block Out the Sun
Blocking out the sun is another great way to keep cool during summer. Installing window shades, blinds, or curtains helps prevent sunlight from entering your home and increasing the temperature. You can also install reflective window films, which absorb solar energy and reflect it away from your home. This can help reduce the amount of heat that enters your house by up to 80%. Additionally, using light-colored paint on your walls can help keep rooms cooler. Darker colors absorb more heat and make it harder to stay cool in the summer months.
3. Utilize Ceiling Fans
One of the main culprits of discomfort during the summer months is humidity. Fortunately, ceiling fans are a great way to control humidity levels and keep your home feeling cooler. Ceiling fans work by moving air around the room, which helps evaporation and cooling take place faster. Not only do ceiling fans help make rooms feel cooler, but they are also energy efficient and can help reduce your energy bills. Additionally, look for fans with a reverse mode, which can help redistribute warm air and keep your home comfortable during winter months as well during the heat.
4. Insulate Your Home
Insulating your home helps keep heat from entering your house while also trapping cool air inside. There are several options for insulating your home, such as insulation panels and spray foam. Insulation panels are the most cost-effective option, and they can be easily installed in attics and walls. For larger areas, such as basements and crawl spaces, it is best to use spray foam insulation, which is a type of expanding foam that blocks out air and moisture. Insulating your home can help keep it cooler during the summer months and save you money on energy bills in the long run. Last but not least, make sure to check for any air leaks, such as gaps around windows and doors. Caulking these areas can help keep the cool air trapped inside and reduce your reliance on your air conditioner.
5. Stay Hydrated
Staying hydrated is key to keeping cool in the summer months. When temperatures rise, it’s important to drink plenty of fluids and avoid becoming dehydrated. Carry a water bottle with you whenever you go out, and be sure to replenish your fluids throughout the day. Additionally, stay away from alcoholic drinks and sugary beverages because these can cause dehydration.
6. Utilize Natural Cooling
Utilizing natural cooling techniques is another effective way to stay comfortable without using energy-hungry appliances. Firstly, you can try planting trees around your home, which can provide shade and help keep temperatures down. You can also increase the size and number of windows in your home to allow for more natural airflow. Additionally, if you have a basement or attic, make sure they are properly ventilated. This will help to draw in cooler air from outside and keep the temperature inside your home comfortable.
7. Choose the Right AC Professional
It is important to choose the right professional to help you stay cool during summer AC since they have the right knowledge, experience, and certification to help you with your air conditioning needs. One of the ways they can help you is by conducting a full and detailed inspection of your AC unit, which can help identify any potential issues that need to be addressed.
They can also provide advice on how to improve the efficiency of your AC unit or recommend replacement parts if necessary. This may include filters, coils, or fans, as well as other components that can help improve the performance of your unit. Additionally, they can provide maintenance services to ensure that your AC unit is running smoothly and efficiently all summer long by cleaning the coils, checking for leaks, and generally looking after all the important parts of your system. Lastly, they can also install new AC units and help you select the best one for your home.
Summer doesn’t have to be uncomfortable and expensive. With a few simple changes, you can beat the heat and stay cool without breaking the bank. However, it’s important to note that if you are having any difficulties with your air conditioner, it’s best to hire a professional to avoid any further damage and even more costly repairs. At Meade’s Heating and Air in Sterling, VA, we are here to help with all your AC needs. We offer inspections, maintenance services, and installations to ensure that you stay cool and comfortable throughout the summer months. We also offer furnace and AC installation, repair, and installation services as well as boosting indoor air quality and duct sealing. Contact us today for more information.
