We're sweltering in a record heat wave. Here are some ideas to beat the heat without breaking the bank.
1. Ice the air.
Running a fan? Set a bowl of ice cubes in front of it. The melting ice will cool the breeze, turning an ordinary fan into an air conditioner.
2. Clever cooling sachet.
Fill a clean sock with raw rice, seal it with a rubber band and put it in your freezer for at least two hours. Before you turn in, slide the frozen compress under the covers to cool the sheets. The rice will hold a chill for hours, so keep it handy to counteract any hot spots.
3. Work the windows.
When it's hotter out than in, close the window, pull the blinds and draw the drapes – the more layers between you and the sun the better. The U.S. Department of Energy estimates this can reduce the heat coming in by up to 45%.
4. Backward fan relief.
This trick could help you cut the A/C at night: simply open your bedroom window and position a fan so it's blowing the air out. Forcing hot air out of a room is twice as effective as trying to blow the cool air in.
5. Close your fireplace.
An open damper actually sucks hot air into your house. Just remember to open the damper back up before you light your first fire next fall.
6. Change your bulbs.
Compact fluorescents produce almost 70% less heat than standard incandescent bulbs generating the same amount of light
Thanks to our friend Paul North at Pillar to Post.
Our friend Paul North sends thess helpful reminders. Save your health and your home's value.
After a long winter with the windows shut tight, things like pet dander, pollen, dust mites and smoke can linger in the air and inside your house – leaving you and your family vulnerable to scratchy throats, itchy eyes and more. Read on for some simple ways to improve your indoor air quality.
Vacuum these.
Your drapes and upholstery. A quick going-over will remove accumulated allergens. Then crack open a few windows everyday and enjoy the fresh air. TIP: Now is also a great time to snap new filters into AC units in preparation for summer.
Clear vents.
Don't block heating and air conditioning vents with things like books, plants or furniture. When this happens, air can't flow normally. This reduces the supply of fresh air and circulation.
Prevent mold and dampness.
Since moisture promotes mold growth, dampness is one of the most common causes of poor indoor air quality in homes. Keep the air well circulated, use ceiling fans to keep air moving through parts of the house that may become damp or humid. Controlling the level of moisture is one of the best and easiest ways to improve indoor air quality and protect your health.
Sniff here.
In your basement and attic. A damp, musty smell could be mold. Using a flashlight, you or a home inspector can check for the telltale signs of water stains, discolored areas on the floor or walls, or dark patches of fuzz. Spot a problem? Mix one cup of bleach with a gallon of water and, wearing gloves, wipe it away. Note: if the area is larger than 10 feet, call a pro.
For added safety: Check the pilot lights on your stove and furnace, if the flames are yellow on top, they may be releasing too much carbon monoxide. Call your local gas company; most will send someone over for little or no cost.
Thanks, Paul!
We're sweltering in a record heat wave. Here are some ideas to beat the heat without breaking the bank.
