With temperatures rising to over 30 degrees, this weekend is looking hot! We’ve curated a few of our favourite tips to help get you through the first heatwave of summer 2017!
Keep Your Windows And Curtains Shut!
Only open windows when the temperature or humidity outside has dropped below that of your home. Keep your home cool and shaded by installing sturdy and light coloured curtains on windows facing the sun. This will reflect and block out intense heat and sunlight.
Install AwningsÂ
Install awnings over windows and doors, not those vinyl ones you see at your local pizza shop,
something more along the lines of this:
   
Wooden awnings block out sunlight in the summer months while the sun is high, but still allow sunlight to heat the home in the wintertime when the sun is lower in the sky.
Get Fans Up And RunningÂ
Use stand fans and ceiling fans to cool yourself down, while keeping your AC off or on low. Remember; fans cool people down, not rooms, so turn them off when you leave the room.
Rethink That Turkey Dinner
Refrain from using large appliances that create excessive heat, like ovens, dishwashers, and dryers. Instead, use your BBQ to cook meals, and hang clothes to dry outside.
If You Have An Air Conditioner
follow these steps before you fire it up!
- Make sure your AC filter is clean. The filter makes sure that the air circulating in your home is clean. Debris builds up on this filter, and can easily restrict airflow. Check out this link on how to replace your AC filter!
- Make sure there is nothing in the way of the return air and supply vents on the floors and walls. There should be a two inch clearance around all vents in your home for optimum air flow.
- Head outside and check your AC unit. Remove any plants, leaves or debris that could be obstructing the airflow of the unit.
Bonus tip!
Don’t be fooled, keeping your AC on while you’re away does not save energy! There’s a myth out there stating that it takes more energy to bring your home back down to a cool temperature, than it does to leave it running all day, and this is NOT true!
