7 tricks to keep your house cool and save energy
Climate change is an irrefutable fact. Hot periods are getting longer and the summer season is starting earlier and ending later. Episodes of extreme temperatures no longer seem to be exceptional. In short, summer is extremely hot and we have to find ways to combat it.
It is clear that resorting to air conditioning is one of the safest bets. More and more homes are including it because it has become an almost essential element.
However, continued use has a negative impact on the electricity bill. On the other hand, ecological awareness invites us to look for more sustainable alternatives.
At Molins Design we are dedicated to interior design and we know simple tricks and ideas that can favor a fresh atmosphere in the home. We invite you to review these 7 tricks to keep the house cool and enjoy a pleasant environment.
Ideas to refresh the home
Sometimes the solutions are so obvious that we think they won’t work. However, resorting to simple solutions can promote air renewal in the home and lower the indoor temperature.
It is about using simple tricks that will help you consume less energy and prepare your home to make the air conditioning systems more efficient and achieve better results.
Ventilate the house first thing in the morning
Our mothers and grandmothers used to do that. As soon as they got up, almost always very early, they opened windows and balconies to renew the air in the home. Doing so between 7 and 8 a.m. is a good idea. The day begins to dawn and there is still a very pleasant freshness in the atmosphere.
It is interesting to open windows and doors so that air currents are created. That way, the air will circulate at a good speed and will be distributed throughout the rooms. If it is also possible to mop the floor with cold water, the feeling of freshness will be multiplied. You will trap fresh and renewed air.
Lowering blinds and shades during daylight hours
The objective is to prevent heat from easily seeping into the interior of the home. To do this, it is best to keep the blinds, curtains or curtains down during the hours of highest incidence. That period of time is usually between 12 noon and 4 in the afternoon.
Keep in mind that 30% of the heat that accumulates in the home enters through the windows and that is why it is necessary to put barriers. If you do it properly you can reduce the temperature up to 6 degrees.
Lowering awnings and putting up pergolas
If you have a balcony or terrace equipped with an awning, it is essential that you lower it before it begins to receive the full sun. That way, the heat will not affect the facade and will not be transmitted to the interior walls of the house.
If you are thinking of installing an awning, go for light colors. The reason is that they retain much less heat than a dark model.
On the other hand, bioclimatic pergolas are also a good solution. They are made with adjustable slats that help regulate ambient heat and promote air movement.
Avoid turning on lights and electrical appliances during the day
It seems obvious, but lamps and light bulbs give off heat. It is advisable to limit the use of light sources and electrical appliances. For example, the television gives off a lot of heat and if it is on for many hours it can contribute to raise the temperature of the living room or the dining room.
And another tip. Regarding lighting, it is always much better to go for LED technology. Firstly because the lamps give off less heat. And secondly because they are much more efficient and have a much longer life.
Green and refreshing houseplants
Plants are always a good bet in interior decoration. They provide a very interesting point of connection with nature and are very decorative. But they also contribute to refresh the environment in an effective way.
The green-leaved varieties transmit a sensation of freshness and can be sprayed to increase it even more. On the other hand, frequent watering in summer contributes to a more comfortable environment.
Extractor fan on for kitchen work
Cooking in summer is always more uncomfortable than in winter. Whenever you can, go for fresh dishes such as cold creams, gazpachos or salads. The use of the oven should be reduced because it generates a lot of heat.
What you should always do is to turn on the extractor hood. In addition to removing the fumes from cooking, it helps to renew the air and reduces the humidity in the kitchen area.
Natural fabrics in household linen
Home textiles are an important part of keeping the house cool. First of all, it is convenient to remove the winter curtains that are somewhat thicker. Also, it is necessary to remove carpets and take the opportunity to clean them.
From Molins Design we recommend placing blinds or sheers of a light and airy fabric such as linen. In addition, it is important to go for light colors like beige or off-white. Also take a look at the cushion covers or plaids you have on the sofa. Make sure they are not too thick and do not transmit too much heat.
As for bed linen, the winning horse is cotton or silk sheets. They are cooler and retain much less heat. In this case, the color range should also be light.
Cool and comfortable homes beyond air conditioning
These are just a few tips to keep your home or second home cool. Depending on the layout of the rooms and the space you have, you can adapt the tips and make the most of them.
Remember, the purpose is to have a space prepared to better withstand the heat and make the air conditioning system more efficient.
