Keep cool this summer!

We are almost afraid to say it aloud, but it looks like spring has sprung and summer is finally here! And whilst we welcome the sunshine and the smiles that it brings, we know that during these long hazy days your homes can become little heat boxes (technical fact: the increase, due to the sun can be as much as 4 degrees!). To make those summer days and nights a little cooler here are a few tips to help…

All about the shade
Like sheltering under the umbrella on the beach, keeping the direct sunlight out of your home during the hottest times of the day will help to keep it cooler. Drawing the curtains or closing the blinds is a little thing that can make a big difference.

It’s a breeze
Let the sounds of summer in, when the air is cooler outside open up the doors and windows (out of the direct sun) and allow the air to flow through your home. However, if it’s hotter in the garden than in the lounge keep the windows closed until the air outside has cooled down a little.

A Natural Bonus
A houseplant can not only provide life into a room but can also keep it cooler… plants release excess water into the air from their leaves, and this evaporated water cools the plants and their surrounding environment. This is a process known as “transpiration.” Its cool to be green!

Unplug this summer
Not only is it great to take life a little slower in the sunshine remember that household appliances give off a surprising amount of heat, turn them off when not in use and think about firing up the BBQ rather than the oven for an alfresco tea.

Your biggest fan
If you have tried all of the above and still need a little something extra then ensure you make the most of your fan. Place it on the floor in front of a window to allow it to suck in the cooler air from outside and share it into your home. Remember to set your fan on a timer and turn it off when you’re sleeping as the night gets cooler.