Summer Heat Almost Over? I think Not!
It’s blazing hot around here at this time of year but that doesn’t mean we can’t make it cooler while having enjoyment. Funny thing, most people believe the heat will be over as soon as summer is over. September, October, and even at times November are still extremely hot at least in California, throughout the desert, and Texas area. Some of my highest electric bills for air conditioning are in September and October, which seem to be overlooked by many. Children are complaining and pets still shedding even in those months so be prepared! However, let’s talk about how hot it is right now and how to make our homes as well as our families more comfortable.
Thank goodness for air conditioners! They are literally a life saver. We all want to spend more time inside when it’s so hot outside. Escaping the searing heat comes at a cost when everyone is trying to sell us something. Companies are making and selling things all claiming their products are the most energy efficient. Fortunately, we can research through experts like the Center for Energy Efficiency Standards, the Climate & Clean Energy Program at the Natural Resources Defense Council, and more which are non-profit. They give advice making much more sense.
Start by making sure all windows are closed tightly so there are no spaces or cracks around them, letting in any hot air. Repair any cracks around doors as well as windows. Close the blinds or curtains during the hottest part of the day, especially between 11 am and 4 pm. Actually, hot air likely can be coming in from anywhere in an older home so be sure to check the entire house for any cracks or holes, which can be repaired with caulking. In many states, your utility company will come to your home and do this check for you at no cost and may even give a discount on your bill for proof of that energy efficient check. The state wants you to save energy and often entices you with savings. Make that call as soon as possible because they get busy with appointments.
Check your air conditioning unit and change filters often. This is especially true if you have pets that shed in the summer heat. Keep plants from growing around your air conditioner, blocking any proper air flow. A good thermostat is a must if you want to save budget. Add some shade somewhere, such as awnings, patio furniture with umbrellas, or just stay inside.
The next energy draw, believe it or not, is your water heater. Be sure to have it checked for leaks.
A home with good insulation will hold the coolness in summer and, in fact, also the heat during winter. That’s worth the investment in your home, whether living in it or planning to sell. Have a professional check your home. Although a possible expense, it will pay off in the long run.
Okay, now let’s keep you and family cool. Summer us well upon us and, as said, the heat will last beyond summer. It brings with us lots of family memories of fun. Most of that fun includes water … swimming, camping, places where we can at least escape to the shade and/or air conditioning occasionally. If you don’t provide some shade or cool air throughout the day, there can still be fun. Just be sure to provide a good sun-block of 30 or more – whether child or adult. Get wet! If not the pool, how about the beach, water sprinklers, water guns, local splash pads, and popsicles with their friends! If not store-bought, look up recipes online and they’ll have a blast making their own. Let them eat lots of water filled fruit, such as watermelon, cantaloupe, and oranges. Play dates in air conditioning or going to the library at the hottest part of the day is a good way to stay cool. Take cool baths or showers in the evening to help sleep.
Everyone tells you to STAY HYDRATED! I know! It’s constantly repeated. Any good M.D., hospital, or nurse will advise that heat stroke is a major problem if dehydrated. It’s especially a problem for children, over 65 years, people living alone, prone to falls, overweight, on certain medications or heart problems. Be sure to keep an eye on that group.
How much water should I be drinking? Per Keck Medicine of USC, +500 international renowned doctors at leading medical centers state that since your body is made up of over 65% of water, to stay healthy as the weather heats up, your body starts to sweat regulating its temperature. It must constantly replenish fluid loss. The amount of water right for your body depends on several factors. “The U.S. National Research Council recommends eight to ten eight-ounce glasses a day. Another way to calculate the right amount is to divide your body weight in half (using pounds), then drink that many ounces. And listen to your body. Even if you are working out in the water, you are still sweating.”
Parents, children won’t always listen to their bodies, so be sure to remind them as they are having fun! Make your house comfortable during the summer so it’s appealing to you and to any prospective buyers. Enjoy or tolerate the remaining heat … probably through October