The comfortable temperatures of spring will slowly build into summer's heat. Although you may appreciate the heat factor as you hit the beach or pool, it's downright oppressive when you're trying to relax at home. There are several strategies that can be employed around the household so that summer's heat is balanced with a comfortable interior. Follow these steps as you make the home a reprieve from the sun.
Plant Some Trees
Balance your home's temperature by planting trees. Select an area of your yard that's normally soaked in sunlight during the summer. Evergreen trees create shade in the summer while offering wind blockage as fall and winter arrive. As the sun strikes the trees, your home will be free from any direct sunlight. Pick deciduous trees if you'd like more sunlight in the winter, however. These trees keep their leaves during the summer to block the sunlight, but lose them for optimal warming in the winter.
Consider a Roof Alteration
Your home's temperature can also be controlled by updating the ridge on your rooftop. This peak is where hot air collects in your attic. Ask reputable roofers to add a ridge vent, which allows hot air to escape from the home. This alteration is relatively inexpensive, and it reduces your heating and cooling costs over time.
Update Your HVAC System
Your heating and cooling system might be outdated so look for upgrades before summer's heat strikes. Replace a few components, such as the blower or control panel, or opt for an entirely new system. Today's models don't require too much power compared to older designs and can be installed by places like HELP Plumbing, Heating, Cooling and Electric. Boost the home's value and comfort with new parts or an entire system purchased before summer.
Install Ceiling Fans
One of the simplest and least expensive upgrades to the home is adding interior fans. Ceiling fans are attractive and give you a quick, cooling feature without an energy bill to match. Incorporate ceiling lights into the fans so that they're functional on multiple levels. Cool off the few rooms that you're occupying instead of the entire home this summer.
Open strategic windows in your home as the summer sun hits one side of your property. Close windows and blinds on the sunny side of the house while opening up the windows on the shady side. Cool air may waft into the home on the shady side. You definitely want to block the radiating heat on the sunny side of the house. At the end of the summer, you'll have clever plans to stay cool on any hot day.
Rachelle Wilber is a freelance writer living in the San Diego, California area. She graduated from San Diego State University with her Bachelor's Degree in Journalism and Media Studies. She tries to find an interest in all topics and themes, which prompts her writing. When she isn't on her porch writing in the sun, you can find her shopping, at the beach, or at the gym. Follow her on Twitter and Facebook: @RachelleWilber; https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100009221637700