Keeping Cool This Summer

Our last blog post talked about taking control of your thermostat in order to keep your electric bill down as the hot weather approaches. But there are a number of other ways to stay cool this summer, and they may save you some money on your apartment, too.

• Wear comfortable clothing. Light-colored, loose-fitting clothing will aid your body in breathing and cooling itself naturally.
• Make sure your cooling vents and air registers are not blocked by furniture, carpeting or drapes.
• Make sure your windows are closed properly.
• If you have a fireplace, make sure the damper is closed.
• Close your shades and/or drapes during the day to block the sun’s heat from entering your home.
• If you have a ceiling fan, set it at a low speed in a counter-clockwise direction. This should produce a gentle downdraft, which will make you feel cooler.
• Use portable fans to move the air and keep you cool.
• Turn off the lights whenever possible. They generate heat.
• Replace incandescent bulbs with compact fluorescent bulbs in fixtures that you use more than four hours a day. They are cooler and more energy efficient.
• Keep your refrigerator and freezer thermostat set within the recommended ranges. Your refrigerator should be set at 37º F to 40º F and your freezer compartment at 0º F to 5º F.
• Use a microwave oven instead of your conventional range or oven.
• Use your exhaust fan to blow the hot air out of the kitchen when you are cooking.
• Postpone activities that require hot water – such as washing dishes or clothes – to early morning or late evening. This will keep from adding more heat and humidity to your home.
• Let your dishes air dry instead of using your dishwasher’s drying cycle.

These are just some of the ideas we have found. Share your ideas for staying cool this summer and green apartment living.