Turning on the air conditioner or a big fan can certainly take the edge off the sweltering days of summer, but this approach can come with a price. Here’s how you can keep your utility bill from rising with the outdoor thermometer.
- Close Your Blinds – Because most of the heat that enters your apartment sneaks in through the windows, keeping blinds closed during the hottest part of the day helps keep cool air in and hot air out. If you don’t like the look of plain blinds, colored versions are available as well as those made from wood or bamboo. You can also hide plain Jane blinds with pretty curtains. If complete sun blockage is your ultimate goal, purchase blackout curtains.
- Change Your Sheets – Few things feel better on a hot day or night than cool cotton sheets. You’ll notice a big difference if you switch out your winter flannel sheets for their breathable cotton counterparts.
- Buy Some Plants – Tall green plants placed near a window provide another way to keep the sun’s rays from entering your home interior. Snake plants and ficus trees are just two examples of houseplants that are all too happy to shield you from the sun’s rays. You can also keep your cool by having plenty of refreshing cold beverages close at hand while outdoor temperatures soar and by tackling household early in the morning and in the evening. Cheers to staying cool this summer!