Keeping Cool Without
Air Conditioning

In warmer weather there are a few things you can do to keep it cool around the house - many of them don't cost a cent. Although heat pumps and air conditioning systems can make short work of cooling down a home there are some other ways as well.

Awnings and blinds are an effective tool at restricting the amount of hot sun entering a home. Just as you would let sun into your home in the winter to warm it up the reverse is true in the summer. If need be you can always open the window while the blind is down to provide air circulation too. Opening the blind in the evening when it's cooler will also allow warmer air, inside the house, to transfer back outside.

Even though it gets hotter outside it's also a good idea look at the amount of insulation in the home. If there's insufficient insulation in the attic space chances are heat will transfer into the home. Good ventilation, using vents or exhaust fans, in the attic will also cool things down and maximize the life of your shingles at the same time.

Make sure all window and door screens are in good condition. A good breeze is always welcome on those unbearably hot days. Dehumidifiers will also assist with removing warm moist air and provide a cooler, dryer, space.

If you just can't stand the heat any longer there are a variety of air conditioning units and heat pumps on the market which will get you cooled down right away. If you already have an air conditioning system remember that before you turn it on each season that it must have power supplied to it for 24 to 48 hours, depending on the model. Don't forget to turn the power off again in the fall to conserve energy. Check dampers on the duct work also to ensure they are set properly to maximize your comfort level.

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