Beat the Heat: Tips to Keep Your Home Cool This Summer

Calgary is no stranger to extreme weather, and this summer’s heat wave is a testament to that. With temperatures soaring to unprecedented highs, residents are feeling the strain of keeping their homes cool and comfortable. Whether you’re looking to find respite from the heat, maintain a comfortable living space, or prepare your property for sale, effective cooling strategies are essential. Here are some practical tips to help you beat the heat and keep your home cool during this sweltering summer.

1. Optimize Your Air Conditioning

Regular Maintenance: Ensure your air conditioning system is in top condition by scheduling regular maintenance. Clean or replace filters monthly to keep the system running efficiently.

Programmable Thermostat: Invest in a programmable thermostat to regulate the temperature automatically. Set it to higher temperatures when you’re away and cooler settings when you’re home.

2. Use Fans Wisely

Ceiling Fans: Ceiling fans can complement your air conditioning system. Set them to rotate counterclockwise in the summer to create a wind-chill effect.

Portable Fans: Place portable fans strategically around the house to improve airflow and create a cooling breeze.

3. Block Out the Sun

Window Treatments: Use blackout curtains, blinds, or shades to block out direct sunlight during the hottest parts of the day. Reflective window films can also help reduce heat gain.

Outdoor Shading: Consider installing awnings, pergolas, or shade sails to shield windows and outdoor living spaces from the sun.

4. Insulate and Seal

Insulation: Proper insulation in your attic, walls, and floors can keep the cool air in and the hot air out. This not only keeps your home cooler but also reduces energy bills.

Sealing Gaps: Seal gaps around windows, doors, and any other openings to prevent hot air from entering and cool air from escaping.

5. Optimize Ventilation

Natural Ventilation: Open windows and doors during the cooler parts of the day, such as early morning and late evening, to let fresh air circulate through your home.

Exhaust Fans: Use exhaust fans in the kitchen and bathroom to remove heat and humidity generated from cooking and showering.

6. Reduce Heat from Appliances

Energy-Efficient Appliances: Use energy-efficient appliances that generate less heat. Avoid using ovens and stovetops during the hottest part of the day; opt for microwaves, slow cookers, or outdoor grills instead.

Light Bulbs: Replace incandescent bulbs with LED lights, which produce less heat and are more energy-efficient.

7. Create a Cool Outdoor Space

Landscaping: Plant trees, shrubs, and vines around your home to provide natural shade and cool the air through evapotranspiration.

Cooling Features: Add water features like fountains or misting systems to your outdoor spaces to create a cooling effect.

8. Hydrate Your Home

Humidifiers: While typically used in winter, some humidifiers have a cooling effect and can help reduce the temperature slightly.

Indoor Plants: Indoor plants can help cool the air through the process of transpiration. Choose plants that thrive in humid conditions, such as ferns or peace lilies.

Conclusion

Keeping your home cool during the hot summer months is essential for comfort and energy efficiency. By optimizing your air conditioning, using fans effectively, blocking out the sun, insulating and sealing, optimizing ventilation, reducing heat from appliances, creating cool outdoor spaces, and incorporating hydrating elements, you can create a refreshing oasis in your home. Whether you’re staying put or preparing to sell, these tips will help you beat the heat and enjoy a cooler, more comfortable summer.