SPOKANE, Wash. — As temperatures rise, keeping your home cool becomes a priority. Here are some expert-recommended tips to help you stay comfortable during the heat.
Close Blinds and Curtains
One of the simplest ways to keep your home cooler is to close your blinds and curtains during the day. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, 76 percent of the sunlight that hits a standard double-pane window turns into heat. Turning your blinds upward or closing them completely can reduce the amount of heat entering your home. Lighter window treatments are more effective. In cases of extreme heat, the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) suggests covering your windows with aluminum foil-covered cardboard to reflect the sun's rays.
Utilize Cross-Breezes
If temperatures drop at night, energy experts recommend opening windows on opposite sides of your home to create a cross-breeze, drawing in cooler, fresh air. Fans can help speed up this process, enhancing the cooling effect.
Use Ceiling Fans Correctly
Ceiling fans can create a wind-chill effect that makes you feel cooler, even though they don't lower the room's temperature. According to Home Depot and Energy Star, you should set your fan to spin counter-clockwise during the summer months to push cooler air down. Most ceiling fans have a small switch beneath the blades to adjust the direction.
Limit Appliance Use
Avoid using appliances that generate a lot of heat, such as ovens, stovetops, washer-dryers, and dishwashers. Instead, try using a microwave or an outdoor grill for cooking. If you need to do laundry, use cold water and air dry your clothes, or wash them at night to avoid adding heat to your home during the day.
Cool Your Body
To cool down your body, experts recommend applying a cold washcloth or ice pack to your pulse points, where blood vessels are closer to the skin's surface. Columbia's Climate School suggests targeting your wrists, neck, elbows, feet, thighs, temples, and forehead. If you don't have an ice pack, a wet washcloth placed in the freezer can be a good alternative.
By following these tips, you can help keep your home cooler and more comfortable during the hot summer months.
For more ways to keep your home cool, click here.
WATCH: Tips to keep your home cool during summer
DOWNLOAD THE KREM SMARTPHONE APP
DOWNLOAD FOR IPHONE HERE | DOWNLOAD FOR ANDROID HERE
HOW TO ADD THE KREM+ APP TO YOUR STREAMING DEVICE
ROKU: add the channel from the ROKU store or by searching for KREM in the Channel Store.
Fire TV: search for "KREM" to find the free app to add to your account. Another option for Fire TV is to have the app delivered directly to your Fire TV through Amazon.
To report a typo or grammatical error, please email webspokane@krem.com