Spring has sprung. Finally. At least we think it has.
But, it is only a matter of time before the warm weather settles in for summer.
Whether your air conditioner fails and you’re awaiting a repair, or you’re just looking to save a little extra money by leaving it off as the weather warms, we’ve got some ideas to help you stay cool without it.
- CLOSE YOUR BLINDS
The sun streaming in the windows makes the room bright, but it also heats things up. You don’t have to keep your blinds closed all day to see a difference. Just shoot for the ones that get the most afternoon light and close them from 12 PM to 5 PM.
- ADJUST CEILING FANS
Have you ever noticed the little black switch on the side of your ceiling fans? It is usually hard to see and often above the blades. This toggle switch changes the direction that the blades spin. Ideally, you want your fans spinning counter-clockwise in warm weather and clockwise in cool weather.
- PROPERLY SEAL OPENINGS
This is far more noticeable when the weather is cold. When you feel cold air streaming underneath your doors or around your windows it is obvious. It’s not as easy to feel it when the weather is warm. But the fact is, openings that are not sealed well allow outdoor air in that disrupts the comfort of your home.
- OPEN THE WINDOWS
Most people look forward to the changing seasons when the weather is mild and they can open the windows to let fresh air in. When the weather is a little warmer, not so much. Those spring temperatures are still around in the early morning and evenings. Opening up the windows during those times can help you get a little free air conditioning.
- CHILL OUT
Sometimes cooling your home isn’t the problem. Sometimes it is us who need to chill. (See what we did there.) When that’s the case consider a cool shower, ice-cold beverage, or even shedding some unnecessary layers.
- SWITCH TO LIGHTER FABRICS
Your bed may be comfortable, but if the temperature is off, sleep may be hard to find. Ditch the fluffy down comforter and switch to lighter, thinner, more breathable fabrics for the summer.
- UPGRADE LIGHT BULBS
Are we nuts? What do light bulbs have to do with anything? Incandescent bulbs use a lot of energy. There’s a reason for the phrase “burn energy.” The energy “burn” that powers incandescent light bulbs generate a considerable amount of heat. Consider upgrading to LEDs to save on energy costs and create less heat in your home.
- TRICK OUT YOUR FAN
Your air conditioner is essentially a big fan blowing over a really cold ring. So, make your own. Grab a bowl of ice, place a fan behind it and voila! You have a small air conditioner you can put wherever you need it.
- USE THE GRILL
Part of cooling your home is generating less heat. Consider grilling your meals instead of using the oven. Many smokers can even be used to bake at lower temperatures. Just make sure to use proper cookware. Even baked goods take on a delicious flavor baked in the smoker.
- HANG OUT IN THE BASEMENT
Hot air rises. Consider spending the majority of your time in the lower levels of your house to stay cooler. Combine this with step number four and you may decide to shut off your air conditioner more often.
Air conditioners definitely make the Midwest heat bearable, but there are other ways to stay cool and help you save a little bit on energy costs before the dog days kick in. Let the countdown to warmer weather and outdoor adventures begin!
