The summer is well and truly here, and for many of us, that temperature is creeping up, sometimes more quickly than we would like. Keeping the home cool and comfortable is a priority, but it can be a lot harder when the heat seems to find its way indoors no matter how much you blast the AC. Here, we’re going to look at the ways the heat can sneak into the home and what you can do about it.
Your Doors
Any tiny gaps in the home’s exterior are going to practically become an open invitation to the warm air. One of the most common sources of these air gaps is the door. Over time, weather stripping can wear down, and if you have wooden doors, even subtle warps in the wood over time can create drafts, which not only make your home hotter in the summer but also make it colder in the winter, too. Replacing old weather stripping or installing a door sweep is quick and inexpensive, but can make a noticeable difference in comfort and energy efficiency.
The Windows
Your windows can experience much the same kind of air gaps as your door, and they often come from the seams where it opens or where it has been fitted. However, the glass itself can be a concern, too, especially if there are any small cracks or gaps that let the cool air seep out. Even seemingly minor damage can result in significantly higher energy bills, so a replacement from Martin Glass may be the best solution. Adding a UV reflective window film at the same time can improve your window’s defenses and reduce heat transfer through sunlight.
The Attic
Since it’s literally over your head, the attic easily escapes attention, but it can become a real heat trap in the summer. As the sun hits the roof, a lot of that heat settles in the attic and can then radiate down into the rest of the home. Without proper insulation and ventilation, it turns your ceiling into a giant warming panel, forcing your AC to work harder. Installing fans and additional insulation can help you cool the attic down, which then cools the whole home down.
Your Electronics
While it might seem like they wouldn’t use enough energy to make a difference, all the appliances in the home can create a surprising amount of heat. From your TV to your computer, and especially your own, these appliances can greatly raise your home’s internal temperature. Avoid using too many appliances, including the dishwasher or dryer, when it’s at the peak of the day’s temperature, and use them instead in the evening. Be sure to unplug any appliances that aren’t in use, as well, so they’re not using energy and producing heat unnecessarily.
If you want to keep your home cool, it’s important to acknowledge that turning up the AC alone isn’t enough. In fact, it can waste a lot of money if you don’t cut down the ways that heat can make its way inside with the tips above.
