Handyman Help: Easy Ways to Stay Cool This Summer

Woman sitting in front of an electric fanThe intense heat and humidity of summer can be unbearable. It may be impossible to sit comfortably, sleep through the night, or keep the electricity bills at bay. While living through a scorching summer without AC seems impossible, there are things you can do to reduce reliance on them.

Some of these ideas are creative so the kids can get in the act to help plan:

  • Make a DIY air conditioner by positioning a shallow pan or bowl full of ice in front of a fan. The breeze will pick up cold water from the ice’s surface as it melts, creating a cooling mist. Be sure to keep fans out of the reach of young children.
  • When you just need an instant cool down, apply ice packs or cold compresses to pulse points on the wrists, neck, elbows, ankles, and behind the knees.
  • Turn off lights when they are not in use. Though it may seem obvious, bulbs give off heat. Take advantage of natural light as much as you can.
  • Disconnect electronics at night. Gadgets and other small appliances give off heat, even when turned off. Reduce total heat in the house by keeping plugs out of sockets when appliances are not in use.
  • Take a cool shower, and don’t towel off. Dry yourself in front of a fan instead. The evaporation will cool you down.
  • Keep the curtains drawn during the day and keep the blinds down. This prevents sunlight from getting in and heating up the house.
  • Keep bottles of water in your freezer at all times. You’ll have an instant cool-down apparatus, and you’ll stay hydrated, too.
  • Plant large, shady trees around the house – not only will they block some of the sunlight from heating up the house, they will add character to your curb appeal.
  • Turn off the AC when leaving the house for more than an hour.
  • Cotton is your best friend. Sleep in light, cotton PJs and choose cotton bedding. Cotton is a breathable fiber that allows air to circulate.