Brace yourselves because today is going to be warm, just like yesterday, the day before that and tomorrow. To sum it up, it is going to be hot. But before you crank up that thermostat, lets look at some greener options to beat the heat, while saving some green in the process.
1.) Use a programmable thermostat: A programmable thermostat allows you to set temperatures to best fit your cooling needs. Consider setting the temperature higher while at work, or during the cooler mornings/nights, which can help keep you cool while limiting energy use.
2.) Consider using a fan: A fan costs much less to operate than an air conditioning unit and will instantly make a room feel 4 to 6 degrees cooler. Ceiling fans will work great for frequently used rooms, while a house fan could pull in enough fresh night air to cool the whole house!
3.) Keep the Sun Out: Consider installing sunblockers on windows, which reduce the amount of sunlight and heat entering a room. These include blinds, curtains and shades. Using sunblockers in a room can reduce heat gain in a well insulated house to 1 degree an hour.
4.) Cook Cool: Using a stove, toaster or any kitchen appliance that uses heat can boost a rooms temperature by up to 10 degrees. Consider making dishes that do not require cooking, or the use of an outside grill to keep the heat outdoors.
5.) Turn the lights off: Or at least consider cooler bulbs. Compact fluorescents use 75% less energy than your standard incandescent bulbs and emit 90% less heat.
Regardless of what techniques you use, make sure you keep your home at a safe and healthy temperature and stay well hydrated during this heat wave. With forecasted highs of 99 both today and tomorrow, an excessive heat warning and an Air Quality Action Day already in place, keeping cool is the number one priority! For more green ways to beat the heat, CLICK HERE
The heat wave looks to break later this week, but until then, remember when we were sick of days like this?
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