The scorching heat wave that’s been making headlines in the Southwest is gearing up to grace the East. We’ve heard reports of unrelenting high temperatures from places like Texas, Florida, and parts of the West for most of this July. The forecast suggests that this fiery blanket is spreading its reach, targeting the North Central states and Plains next.
If you’re from the Midwest, brace yourself for mercury levels hitting a whopping 100 degrees. Northeast folks, expect the thermostat to cruise to the high 90s. With about 10% of Americans without air conditioning, and many realizing their units just aren’t cutting it for these extreme heats, we need to get creative. Here are some nifty tricks and hacks to keep your home’s chill without necessarily relying on your AC.Â
Short-Term Tricks to Keep Cool
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Smart Blinds Strategy: Simply shut those blinds. The Department of Energy points out that about 60% of the external heat can be blocked by window coverings. So, when the sun’s blazing, keep them shut tight.
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Hot Air Out: Hot air has a tendency to rise. Use exhaust fans in your bathrooms or kitchens to expel this unwanted heat. And when the night’s cooler than your indoors, place a box fan by the window blowing out, and another fan to usher in the cool night air.
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DIY Cooling: Get inventive. Try hanging a damp cold sheet before a fan, place a bowl of ice in its path, or even tape some frozen water bottles behind it. Feels like a hill station yet?
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Ceiling Fans: An oldie but a goodie. This can make your room feel up to 10 degrees cooler. And a pro tip from Bob Vila: set the blades counterclockwise to pull up the cool air.
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Turn Off Devices: Your charging gadgets, believe it or not, give off heat. So, unplug or switch off the ones not in use. And if possible, let your heat-generating appliances like dishwashers take a break until nighttime. Additionally, you can also read about- Geothermal Energy: Most Affordable Power in the world
For the Long Game: Long-Term Solutions
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Attic Insulation: Trap that hot air in the attic by insulating it well.
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Upgrade Windows: Consider certified products from the Attachments Energy Rating Council (AERC) for optimal window treatment. From window films that block heat to honeycomb shades that are perfect heat trappers, there’s a lot to choose from. And if curtains are your thing, heavy fabric ones with a lining are the best bet.
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Opt for Low-E Glass: This energy-efficient glass, with its multiple panes and a unique gas sandwiched between them, is magic for preventing heat transfer.
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Home Weatherization: It’s about sealing the deal – literally. Seal any leaks, add weather stripping, and up your insulation game.
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White Roof: Seems unusual? But painting your roof white can actually reflect away a significant amount of heat.
Stay cool, everyone, and remember to hydrate!
