Texas is officially the fourth-hottest state, and while it may not feel like it during the occasional winter freeze, you’re sure to remember when summer rolls around. Dealing with a hot Texan summer can be a drag, but we’re here to help you keep your cool. Read on for a few quick tips to survive the summer heat this year.
Make Sure Your AC Is Ready for Summer
It’s a bit toasty throughout most of the year in Texas, aside from the occasional pesky deep freezes, but summer is what you really have to worry about. You can get away without air conditioning in the cooler months, and you may even open your windows to let in a nice breeze. During the summer, you’re going to melt (no, not literally) without help from your air conditioner.
Before the warm weather arrives, check on your AC. The experts at Air Central HVAC recommend that you get your air conditioning system serviced by a professional at least once per year, preferably right before summer. This way, you won’t have any unpleasant surprises when you try to turn on the AC for the first hot day of the year just to realize that it’s not working at all.
It’s best to not overuse your air conditioner, even during the summer, but you want to have the option available just in case.
Keep Blinds Closed During the Day
Running the air conditioner all day long when you’re not home is a bit of a waste. It’s not great for the environment and it’s definitely not good for your wallet! But coming home to a hot and stuffy home is miserable.
Instead of running your AC on full-blast when you’re not home during the day, block off the windows with opaque curtains. Blackout curtains work well, but they aren’t necessary.
Alternatively, you can use UV-blocking window film, but it won’t work quite as well as blocking the light completely.
If it cools down significantly at night, wait until the sun goes down before opening the windows. Trust us, this can make a big difference in the comfort of your home and it can reduce your energy bills!
Leave the Oven Off
Summer is not the time to be making full Sunday roasts and baking pies. Do your best to avoid having the oven on during heat waves. An oven can heat up your home quickly!
Instead, opt for cold foods. Not only will this help you avoid heat from cooking, but you’ll also cool your body off while you eat. Cool salads, cold noodle dishes, and of course, ice cream will all help survive the summer heat.
Hit the Pool
When it’s absolutely sweltering outside, what do you want to do? If you’re anything like us, you can’t wait to get into the pool. A quick dip can make you feel so much better.
If you can, consider running a sprinkler or getting a small inflatable pool for your yard so you can cool off every day. Don’t forget to wear sunscreen!
Stay Cool In Texas This Summer
Don’t let the Texas heat get you down. Use these tips to keep yourself feeling calm, cool, and collected even when the temperatures reach triple digits.
