Summer 2024
Summer is around the corner and as it starts to heat up we want to discuss ways that you can prepare your home with some tips regarding the ultimate cooling solutions. Summer in Canada ranges from June to September- and during these 4 months we want to feel cool and comfortable while facing the heat while also not breaking the bank.
Closed Curtains
An easy quick tip that can help cool your house down is to keep the curtains or blinds closed. If the sun is streaming through an open window or curtain the heat from it will warm up the space and because heat rises so will the temperature in your house. If you want a better option than average curtains you could even go with blackout curtains that help trap the sunlight in it’s spot. Studies demonstrate that medium-coloured draperies with white-plastic backings can reduce heat gains by 33%.
Window Film
Window film can help reduce the reflecting ultraviolet rays that come from the sun. Depending on the type of film you get you can reject up to 79% of the sun’s heat, saving up to 30% on your A/C bill. We recommend 3M window film since it is also a cost-effective solution and a better affordable alternative to more expensive options. You can find window films at most local hardware stores and even online- and better yet they are easy to use. Here are some tips for setting up window films on your own.
1. Clean the window with recommended window cleaning solutions.
2. If your kit comes with a spray apply this on the window or use the basic window cleaning product.
3. Press the film onto the window- it’s recommended to start from the bottom working your way up and pressing against the window to remove bubbles.
4. Use a credit/debit card to move along the film to remove any bubbles.
5. And there you have it!
Avoid using the Stove or Oven
An oven may generate 1 Ton, 12,000 BTU or 3400W of heat for as long as you use it. Even if you use an over at 3400 W for an hour, the heat will take a few hours to away. While a stove top can on average produce about 7000 BTUs per burner. So instead of using these appliances switch to the good ole’ outdoor grill to help avoid adding access heat into your home. Even making meals that don’t require any use of the stove or oven can help you avoid creating any access heat.
Insulation
Insulation is a key factor in keeping your home warm and cool depending on the time of year. Proper insulation on the walls or even in the attic can help control your homes general climate- and better yet the overall cost of adding insulation is inexpensive and can even be done by yourself. A renovation is an ideal time to insulate your existing walls but it can be done at any point if it’s needed. Insulation can be found at any local hardware store and often the professionals there can help provide you with the ideal product and advise any questions or concerns.
Ceiling Fans
Ceiling fans are often helpful at night when we’re trying to sleep- but did you know that depending on the direction your fan is set as you might be pushing the hot air around instead of pushing it down. To help with this set your ceiling fans to rotate counter-clockwise in summer to push air straight down. In warmer weather, set the fan speed high and don’t forget to clean off the dust!
Lightbulbs
Lightbulbs are not something we often think about- but it’s been proved that certain bulbs like incandescent and halogen lights admit more heat. An example is how incandescent bulbs release 90% of their energy as heat. Switch over to energy-saving bulbs like LED lights to help avoid any access heat and save on energy. An LED light has a much longer life span and can operate up to 50,000 to 100,000 operating hours, or roughly 5 to 10 years.
How that you have some ideas of how to keep cool this summer we hope these tips will help you get through the hot summer season ahead of us!
-A4 Group
