Keeping your house cool in summer can be challenging as temperatures soar. Luckily, the experts at John C. Flood are here to help! We put together this guide of practical and energy-efficient strategies to help maintain a cool indoor climate, covering insulation, energy-efficient cooling devices, sunlight blocking, landscaping for shade, and the importance of a well-maintained HVAC system.
Tips to Keep a Cool House in the Summer
Staying cool during the summer doesn’t mean you have to increase your energy consumption with air conditioning. Many other techniques and strategies can effectively lower the temperature in your home.
Improve Your Insulation
Improving your insulation is one of the most effective ways to keep your house cool in the summer. Insulation doesn’t only keep your home warm in winter; it also helps to keep it cool during summer by reducing heat transfer. It might be beneficial to upgrade or install insulation in your walls, roof, and floors if they need to be adequately insulated. Materials like fiberglass, cellulose, and spray foam are great options for heat insulation. Hiring a professional to assess your home’s insulation might be an excellent first step.
Use Energy-Efficient Cooling Devices
Cooling your home doesn’t have to come with high energy costs. Energy-efficient devices like smart thermostats can keep your home comfortable during the summer. Fans, for example, use less energy than air conditioning and can be very effective, primarily when combined with other cooling methods.
Alternatively, energy-efficient air conditioners can provide significant cooling with lower power consumption. When choosing such devices, look for energy-star ratings and consider the size of the space you’re cooling to ensure maximum effectiveness.
Block Out Sunlight During Peak Hours
Much of the heat inside your house comes directly from sunlight shining through the windows, especially during peak hours. Curtains, blinds, or reflective window films can effectively block out sunlight and reduce the heat that enters your house. When choosing curtains or blinds, opt for lighter colors that reflect sunlight, and close them during the hottest parts of the day.
Optimize Your Landscaping for Shade
Practice Good Ventilation
Ventilation is critical for maintaining healthy air quality in your home. Cross-ventilation, aligning windows across each other, allows the breeze to flow through your home. On cooler summer nights or early mornings, open windows to let the cool air in, then close them as temperatures rise. Ceiling fans can also help circulate air.
Preparing Your HVAC System for Summer
Speaking of ventilation, your HVAC system is fundamental in keeping your house cool and comfortable during the hot summer. By circulating air and filtering out pollutants, HVAC systems promote better air quality and reduce the risk of mold growth, a common issue in hot and humid climates. They also help regulate humidity levels, improving indoor air quality and creating a more pleasant environment.
Prevent HVAC Issues with Proper Maintenance
Neglect can lead to a poorly performing system when you need it most, resulting in uncomfortable temperatures and potentially expensive repairs. One of the simplest yet most important aspects of HVAC maintenance is changing the air filters monthly during the cooling season to ensure your unit runs efficiently. A dirty filter restricts airflow, making the system work harder to cool your home, leading to higher energy costs and potential damage to your system.
Scheduling an HVAC inspection before the cooling season is a great idea. Your AC technician can point out any developing problems, such as components that are wearing out, and make sure your coolant is charged correctly. If you need a new AC, a professional can help ensure you have the right size system for your home.
Discover John C. Flood’s Expert Cooling Solutions
With the help of John C. Flood’s HVAC professionals, keeping your home cool in the summer will be a breeze. If you need HVAC installation, repair, or maintenance services, contact our friendly technicians today.
