Now that summer is officially in full swing, it can be a challenge to endure those hot, sweltering days, particularly if you do not have air conditioning in your Collingwood home. Luckily, there are several ways to keep your family cool and to make summer a little more enjoyable. 

Be Smart With Your Window Treatments

Did you know that up to 30% of unwanted heat in your home comes from your windows? To keep this heat away, be smart with your window treatments and keep them closed during the day. This is particularly important if the sun shines directly on certain sides of your home. 

To block out unwanted heat even more, consider blackout curtains. These products are designed to resist sunlight and will keep the rooms throughout your home cooler. 

Circulate Your Ceiling Fans Counter-Clockwise

The direction of your ceiling fan can affect the temperature in your room. When you run the fan counter-clockwise, the airflow in the room will create a breeze-like effect, which will help to cool down the room and keep yourself and all of your guests more comfortable. 

Sleep With the Windows Open

During the night, the temperatures outside drop to brisk and refreshing levels. Open up the windows throughout your home and let the hot air escape and the cool air enter inside. To help maintain this temperature, you should close your windows and curtains first thing in the morning.

To make the cool, outdoor air enter your home at an even faster rate, place a box fan in your window throughout the night and let it suck in the cool air. This will not only keep you cool but it will help drown out the outdoor noises as well. 

Don’t Use the Oven

Your oven lets out a substantial amount of heat. If left on for long periods of time such as to bake a casserole or several batches of cookies, this appliance can quickly heat up your kitchen. During the summer months, avoid using the oven as much as possible. As you prepare dinner, consider using appliances such as a slow cooker or an outdoor grill. Making a lot of sandwiches, wraps, and other no-bake dishes will also help you keep the house cool and is a great way to use lots of fresh, seasonal produce. 

Keep Doors Closed

If there are rooms throughout your Collingwood home that you do not use, make sure you keep the doors to these spaces closed. When open, cool air will travel to these areas and it will take longer to cool down more frequented spaces in your home.