photo credit: fauxto_digit
We like to put off turning on the A/C for summer as long as possible. We haven’t turned it on yet this year although we may end it up doing so tonight since it isn’t going to cool off much overnight. Anyway, here are a few strategies we use to keep cool without using the air conditioner.
Use Fans- We have a fan that fits in the window in our bedroom that moves a lot of air. We also have several ceiling fans that help us feel cooler. I think it is important to note here that fans do not cool the air. When they are blowing on you they make you feel several degrees cooler but they do not actually cool the air. Therefore, if you are not in the room where the fan is blowing you are wasting electricity by having it on. The obvious exception to this is when the fan is blowing cooler air from outside or elsewhere.
Avoid Creating Heat – Try not to use the oven, clothes dryer, or dishwasher when it is hot. It is also helpful to take your shower or do any other activity that creates heat during the cooler morning hours if possible. Keep the curtains closed on windows that let in direct sunlight.
Drink Lots of Ice Water – Drinking ice water or other cool beverages will cool you off and keep you hydrated. I drink lots of ice water in the summer and the rest of the year as well.
One more tip is to stay in the basement where it is naturally cooler. I hang out there most of the day anyway since that is where the computer is. 🙂
There are many more strategies to help keep cool but I think these are the most beneficial.