To keep a house cool during a heat wave, key strategies include:
- Blocking heat from entering: Keep blinds, curtains, or external shades closed on windows that receive direct sunlight to prevent heat buildup inside. Plants or window tinting can also help shade the house during the day.
- Ventilating at cooler times: Open windows in the early morning or late evening when outdoor temperatures are cooler to create airflow and flush out hot air. During the hottest time of day, keep windows closed.
- Using fans effectively: Ceiling fans should rotate counter-clockwise in summer to push cool air down, and portable fans can enhance airflow. Positioning fans near open windows in cooler times can draw fresh air inside.
- Creating a cool room: Focus on keeping one or two rooms cool, closing doors to unused areas to concentrate cool air.
- Limiting heat generation: Avoid using ovens or heat-producing appliances during the hottest periods. Cooking outside or at cooler times is helpful.
- Taking cool showers and staying hydrated can also aid personal cooling.
Additional tips include attic fans to ventilate hot air, heat pumps, evaporative coolers, and ensuring proper insulation to keep heat out. Using air conditioning efficiently by setting thermostats higher and supplementing with fans saves energy and costs. These collective methods help maintain a cooler indoor environment without relying solely on air conditioning, which saves energy and reduces bills during heat waves.
