The heat is on and now is the time to prepare your home for the high summer temperatures forecasted for southern Ontario. Environment and Climate Change Canada is forecasting a drastic change in the summer weather for 2023 from recent years. Our local area can expect to combat soaring temperatures of 32 degrees Celsius with many areas seeing 37 degrees Celsius. These high temperatures along with high humidity levels can cause heat levels to approach 40 degrees Celsius.
Effective Cooling Strategies for Your Home
As the summer heat has begun to settle over the province, there are some things you can do today to reduce the buildup of indoor heat in your home.
Block Sunlight and Heat
One of the best cooling strategies is to close all blinds, shades, and curtains during the daylight hours. Most blind/shades offer insulating properties to reduce the amount of heat entering through the window and framework. Windows are known to contribute up to 40% of the home’s interior heat. Having tint or film installed on the glass surface can reduce the heat from the sun and the outdoor air.
In addition, you can install awnings on the exterior of your home to help reduce the amount of sunlight that enters your home. Planting trees, tall plants, and bushes near your home can also help reduce the heat inside your home.
Improve Air Circulation and Ventilation
Using a ceiling, pedestal, or box fan is a common practice for most homeowners. Fans act as a ventilation source and can reduce the accumulation of heat. Ceiling fans should be operated in a counterclockwise direction to draw hot air up while pushing cooler air down.
Most homeowners also use basic cross-ventilation methods, such as opening windows directly across from each other, to create airflow throughout the house.
Insulate and Seal Your Home
Older homes require re-insulating over time. Even newer homes can benefit from proper insulation in the walls, basement, and attic to maintain a cooling effect. To help support and reduce the use of cooling systems such as heat pumps or air conditioners, take measures to seal any gaps and cracks in the structure of your home.
Any small air leaks around the windows and doors can draw in the heat. Installing weather stripping around all openings throughout the home help increase the coolness of your home.
Use an Air Conditions and Heat Pump
Installing a heat pump and/or air conditioner can improve the overall cooling of your home. Existing systems that are more than 10 years old may be raising costs and excessive energy output that works against the goal of efficient cooling.
Regardless of the system chosen, it is critical to have the proper unit installed to guarantee maximum efficiency. A system too large can be a waste of energy while too small will see the unit working overtime to keep up with demand.
Regular maintenance on a cooling system can ensure the continuation of airflow, especially on hot days when the system needs to perform harder. In addition, consider having a smart thermostat for regulation and control of the settings.
Adjust Your Cooking Habits
Avoid heating up the kitchen by using only the microwave oven or cooking meals using outdoor appliances such as barbeques or other types of grills during the summer months.
Household appliances generate heat when in use. During heatwaves, avoid using clothing dryers and hang wet clothes on a clothesline or on an indoor drying rack.
Take Advantage of Cooler Times
As the hottest times of the day can be felt between 10:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m., it is recommended to limit outdoor activities during the period. Activities should be limited to early morning and late evenings times.
“Night flushing” is a method to cool down a home overnight as temperatures fall lower than daytime temperatures. Opening windows and vents in the home, when safe to do so, can help prepare the home for the next day’s heat.
Stay Hydrated and Dress Appropriately
Water is your best friend during a heat wave. In addition to drinking plenty of fluids, clothing can also affect the body’s ability to regulate temperature. Wear breathable materials that are loosely woven and lightweight.
How Econoair Heating & Cooling Can Help Keep Your Home Cool
Discuss the best cooling solutions for your home with the experts at Econoair Heating & Cooling Inc. We offer affordable heat pump installation, repair, and maintenance packages to help your home cool all summer. Call us at 905-763-2400 or fill out our contact form here.