Here are some simple tips and tricks to help you stay cool and comfortable in your home during the dog days of summer!

1.      Keep the sun out: This simple change seems so simple, but it will make a big difference! Close your shades to prevent direct sunlight from coming in. According to Family Handyman, up to 30% of unwanted heat comes through your windows.

2.      Close some vents: Closing vents in rooms that are naturally cooler (AKA- your basement) and other rooms that you aren’t regularly in, will force more cold air elsewhere in your home.

3.      Take advantage of a fan and ice: Putting a bowl of ice in front of a fan will chill the air being produced by the fan. It is a great trick to cool off quickly when coming inside from the hot outdoors.

4.      Change your bedding and clothing: Focus on cotton or dry wick fabrics. Check out buckwheat, cool foam, or gel pillows that won’t hold body heat like a conventional pillow.

5.      Re-set your fan, so it rotates counter-clockwise: Believe it or not, the counter-clockwise rotation creates a wind-chill breeze effect (Energy Star).

6.      Turn on your exhaust fan and bathroom fans: They may be a bit noisy, but they will pull the hot air out of your home.

7.      Light the grill: Avoid turning on the oven. If you are looking for other options besides the grill, try making a cold pasta salad or utilizing your crockpot.

8.      Make the switch to LED: Fluorescent light bulbs use 90% of their energy in the heat they emit (Center for Sustainable Energy). So if you haven’t made the switch to LED, there is no better time.

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