Celebrate the power of homeownership this Fourth of July

Did you melt like the evil witch of the West this week?

As summer temperatures rise, keeping your home or apartment cool during heat waves becomes both a comfortable and economic challenge. One of the most effective ways to keep your home cool is to prevent heat from getting in the first place. The sunlight flows through the windows can significantly increase the indoor temperature. Consider the following solutions:

•Close the blinds or curtains in the hottest part of the day. Blackout curtains or thermal drapes can reduce thermal gain by up to 30%.

• Attach reflective window film to block UV rays and reduce solar heat without sacrificing natural light.

• Use outdoor shading solutions such as awnings (yes, removed because they were “dated”) and shutters to limit direct sunlight.

Fans are a cost-effective way to circulate the air and create a breeze-cold effect that makes the room feel cool.

•The ceiling fan must rotate counter-clockwise in the summer to push down the cold air.

• Place box and vibration fans near the window to draw in cool evening air and push out hot air.

• Create a cross-breeze by opening a window on the other side of the house and placing a fan to point the air into the air.

•For extra cooling, place an ice bowl or frozen water bottle in front of the fan to circulate the cooled air.

To optimize natural ventilation, open the windows early or late in the evening when temperatures drop outdoors. This helps cooler air flow and ventilate the heat that has accumulated during the day.

Appliances and electronics produce an incredible amount of heat. To lower indoor temperature:

•Do not use the oven or stove during the day. Choose a No-Cook meal, microwave cooking, or an external grill.

•Runs heat-sprung equipment such as dishwashers and clothes dryers early in the morning and evening.

• If not in use, unplugging the electronics will allow even standby power to apply heat to the space.

• Switching to energy-efficient LED bulbs reduces ambient heat compared to incandescent lighting.

If you are using an air conditioner, maximize the following effects:

•Set a reasonable temperature. It is surrounded by 76-78°F when you are home, and it is higher if you are away.

•Replace filter cleaning or replacement periodically to maintain airflow and efficiency.

• Seal gaps around doors and windows to prevent cool air from escaping. (Didn’t we all have a parent who said, “You’re closing the door. Are you allowing all the cool-outs?”

• Use a programmable thermostat to optimize cooling schedules and reduce energy usage.

If costs aren’t being kept down, adding insulation to your attic or walls can significantly reduce heat transfer. Heat reflecting solar panels are also useful, offsetting the cost of installation. Adding weathered muscle apples around doors and windows, sealing cracks, or using door sweeps can make a big difference in eliminating heat and suppressing cold air.

Natural and environmentally friendly methods can also help keep your home cool.

•Snake plants, ferns, or rubber trees improve air quality and allow slightly cooler air through transpiration.

• White or reflective roof painting can significantly reduce the temperature of the roof.

• Cooling mats and bedding can make your sleep more comfortable without increasing A/C.

For those who can’t make permanent changes, there are still many ways to keep them cool.

• Use portable fans and A/C units instead of the embedded system to make sure they are the correct size for your space.

•Removable window film or static clinging tint can reflect heat without violating the wreath.

•Instead of a window cover attached to the hardware, install a tension rod curtain or a temporary power outage panel.

• Add a draft blocker and weather strip tape that can be applied and removed without damage.

• Covers the floor with a brightly colored rug and reflects rather than absorbing heat.

• If permitted, use temporary adhesive hooks to hang the light filtering fabric over the reflective material or windows.

Even if your space is warm, you can take steps to help keep your body cool.

• Wear light, breathable fabrics such as cotton and linen.

• Maintain hydration and avoid caffeine or alcohol during peak hot hours.

• Take a cool shower or use a damp cloth on your neck and wrist to lower your temperature.

Keeping your home or apartment cool in the summer doesn’t have to be expensive, but energy-intensive. A few adjustments, including sun blocking, airflow optimization, effective use of fans and renter-friendly upgrades, can create a more comfortable indoor environment while reducing energy bills.

Valerie M. Blake I’m a licensed associate broker in DC, Maryland and Virginia and RLAH @Properties. Call or text her on 202-246-8602, email her at dchomequest.com, or follow her on Facebook therealst8ofafffairs.