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Summer 2024 is expected to be a scorcher, with temperatures soaring above normal levels. According to the Weather Company, an “abnormally hot” summer is predicted for parts of the United States, particularly in a band stretching from the Northwest down through the Southwest and into Texas. With such extreme weather on the horizon, it’s crucial to be prepared. Here’s how you can keep your home cool during the sweltering months ahead.
Will Air Conditioning Help? Understanding the HVAC Challenge
Air conditioning (AC) units are a common go-to solution for beating the heat, as they can make indoor temperatures much more comfortable. However, reliance on HVAC systems poses significant challenges. While they provide immediate relief, they also contribute to global climate change. Air conditioning units consume a substantial amount of electricity, which often comes from fossil fuels. This increased energy demand leads to higher carbon emissions, thereby exacerbating global warming. Essentially, while cooling our homes, we are inadvertently heating the planet. Therefore, finding ways to reduce HVAC usage is not only beneficial for your wallet but also for the environment.
Creating Paths for Air Circulation
One effective way to cool your home without relying heavily on AC is by enhancing air circulation. Start by decluttering and organizing your living space. Less clutter allows cool air to travel more efficiently through your home, reducing hot spots and making the overall environment more comfortable. Arrange your furniture to create unobstructed pathways for air to flow, and consider using fans to help circulate the air. Ceiling fans, in particular, can be very effective when used in conjunction with open windows to create a cross-breeze that naturally cools your home.
Invest in Thermal Curtains
Thermal curtains are often associated with winter, but they can also be incredibly useful in the summer. These curtains are designed to insulate your home by blocking out heat from the sun. During the hottest part of the day, close these curtains to keep the sunlight from warming up your living spaces. Thermal curtains can reduce the amount of heat entering your home, thus helping to maintain a cooler indoor temperature without the need for excessive air conditioning. They are an investment that pays off year-round, providing insulation from both heat and cold.
Create Shade on Your Patio and Front Room
If you have a patio or a front garden-facing room with a glass door, these areas can quickly become heat traps, significantly increasing the indoor temperature. Direct sunlight through glass doors and windows can make your home feel like a greenhouse. Using retractable awnings is an excellent solution to control sun exposure. These awnings can be extended during the hottest parts of the day to provide shade and then retracted when not needed. This not only keeps your patio and front room cooler but also reduces the overall heat entering your home, making it more comfortable without over-relying on air conditioning.
Favor Warm Drinks
It might seem counterintuitive, but drinking warm beverages can help cool you down more effectively than iced drinks. Warm or lukewarm drinks are closer to your body temperature, which means your body doesn’t need to work as hard to regulate its temperature. In contrast, consuming very cold drinks causes your body to expend energy to warm up, which can actually raise your overall body temperature. Opt for non-iced drinks such as herbal teas or warm water with a slice of lemon. Staying hydrated is crucial in the heat, as proper hydration helps your body maintain its temperature and cope with extreme heat more effectively.
Use Magnesium at Night
Sleeping can be particularly challenging when nighttime temperatures remain high. Hot, uncomfortable nights can lead to poor sleep, which in turn affects your body’s resilience to extreme temperatures. Magnesium supplements can help improve your sleep quality. Magnesium promotes relaxation and can make it easier to fall asleep and stay asleep despite the heat. A good night’s sleep is essential for your overall health and can make your body more adaptable to daytime heat, ensuring you stay cool and comfortable.
As we brace for an unusually hot summer, taking proactive steps to keep your home cool is essential. While air conditioning provides immediate relief, it’s important to be mindful of its environmental impact and explore alternative methods. It’s becoming increasingly important to learn how to keep cool without affecting the environment any further. Ultimately, until we learn how to design an HVAC system that is fully green, both in its build and its process, it’s best to figure out alternative methods to stay comfortable this summer. By implementing these tips, you can enjoy a cooler, more comfortable home and contribute to a healthier planet. Stay cool, stay safe, and enjoy your summer!
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