Keeping cool in the summer is a necessity here in Australia, and with the temperature increasing, it's even more important! We all know how scolding hot the sun can be, so we retreat to our houses... however, the house often resembles something close to a sauna on the really hot days. And, because we are all eco-friendly (right?) we try to avoid turning on air-conditioning at all costs!
Conundrum? I think not! There are plenty of other ways to keep cool this summer, here's just a few:
1. Open and close windows around the house.
Throughout the day keep your windows and curtains shut, then open the entire house up when it gets cooler in the evenings. Also, if you have bits of your house which you just can’t keep cool, shut the door to these areas so they don’t heat the rest of the house.
2. Put reflective film on your windows
This works well in the summer to keep the house cool, however means you get less sun in the winter. Opt for removable reflective film so you can just use it for the summer.
Here's
more info
for Australian residents
3. Just cool the room you're in
If you need to use your air-conditioner or fans, condense it to just one room in the house. Shut all the doors to this room, this will work better and save energy. When using your air-conditioner, If you have temperature control then set the cooling 1 degree C higher.
4. Turn off the lights
This will save energy and keep you cooler. The same goes for many electronics. Consider unplugging any device that isn't needed. Even in standby mode, many electronics remain hot. Incandescent lights are far hotter than fluorescent lights, and use more energy.
5. Eat cold meals
When at home, make nice cold drinks, cold soups and salads.
Try
Maeve O'Meara's Meara's Mexican Guacamole
6. Water, water water!
Use water to cool yourself down. If you're lucky enough to have a pool or be near the beach, then you're sorted. But If you live in a boiling hot apartment like me, try some more inventive ways. Fill up a spray bottle with water and put it in the fridge for a little while, then go crazy, it works trust me! Or soak a cloth in cold water
There are so many ways to keep cool in the summer. If you're like me, pale, freckly and irrationally afraid of the sun, then staying inside is definitely the way to go.
However, getting outside and sitting under a shady tree is also a great way to keep cool!
Do you have any more ideas?
Did you like this post?
Then click here to JOIN 1 MILLION WOMEN!
Join us in taking practical action on dangerous climate change through the way that we live, the choices we make and the way we spend our money