As residents of Arizona, we all know the joys of dealing with scorching summers and the unrelenting heat that comes with them. Beat the summer heat and get the most out of your home cooling system with these tips for Arizona residents.
One of the best ways to keep your home cool is to invest in energy-efficient appliances. Investing in and using Energy Star appliances provides a wide range of benefits, including a decrease in your utility bills, savings on repairs, and a decrease in your carbon footprint.
Make sure you are changing your air filters regularly. This should be done every three months but can be done every month if you live in a highly trafficked area or are particularly prone to allergies. Clean air filters ensure your A/C unit is running efficiently and will help to keep your house cool.
Keep Cool With Window Treatments
Window treatments are a great way to keep your home cool in the summer months. Closed blinds or curtains can significantly reduce the amount of heat that enters your home and provide additional insulation that will block out the sun’s rays.
You should also be setting your thermostat to the highest temperature that still allows for comfortable living. Keeping your thermostat at a lower temperature will only lead to a higher energy bill and will force your cooling system to work harder than it needs to.
Unplug Electronics & Close Off Rooms
Make sure to unplug any electronics that are not in use. Many electronics can produce a lot of heat which, when left on for extended periods of time, can cause the temperature in your home to soar. It is also important to close off any rooms that are not being used as this will conserve energy and reduce your energy bills.
Also, fans can be used to help cool your home. Fans work by moving air around the room which makes it feel cooler, even if the temperature doesn’t physically change. Keeping a few fans set up around your home can help to make it feel comfortable without having to turn up your air conditioning.
Finally, make sure your home is properly sealed and insulated. Check for any cracks or holes in your walls and ceilings and use caulk or weather stripping to seal them off. This helps to keep the cool air inside and prevents hot air from coming in.
Take Advantage of Outdoor Activities
- Go for a swim at your local pool or lake.
- Head to your local park and take advantage of the shade.
- Have a picnic in the park or visit your local ice cream shop in the early evening.
- Embark on a hike and enjoy the cooler temperatures found at higher elevations.
- Visit the library, movie theater, or shopping mall.
- Relax in your backyard in the early morning or evening hours to take advantage of the cooler temperatures.
Conclusion
These home cooling tips for Arizona residents will help keep your home cool and your energy bills low. Remember to properly invest in energy-efficient appliances, set the thermostat to the highest temperature that still allows for comfortable living, use window treatments, unplug electronics, close off rooms, use fans, and take advantage of outdoor activities. With these tips, you can stay comfortable no matter how hot it gets.