The weather is about to get hot, there’s no way around it. This makes life a little tricky for certain people, especially those without air conditioning. While we’d always advise our local community to call us for AC installation, especially for a central air conditioner or a heat pump, we know it’s not always in the cards. That’s why we’re providing this quick set of tips to help you through the next heatwave.
If you’re a homeowner with an attic, you might also want to consider an attic fan to help reduce the heat load on your home. Attics can soak up heat and cause your air conditioner or fans to run inefficiently, which is a problem on the hottest days of the year. Work with our team to quickly install an attic fan in Butler, PA so you can avoid a serious efficiency problem in your home.
Summer Heatwave Tips
During a summer heatwave, staying cool without air conditioning can be challenging, but there are several practical ways homeowners can beat the heat and protect their homes and health.
1. Harness Natural Ventilation and Attic Fans
One of the most effective passive cooling strategies is to maximize natural ventilation. Open windows in the early morning and evening when outdoor temperatures are lower, and close them during the hottest part of the day to trap cooler air inside. Adding an attic fan can significantly boost your home’s ability to stay cool.
Attic fans work by expelling hot air that accumulates in the attic space, which can often exceed safe temperatures during a heatwave. By reducing the attic temperature, less heat radiates down into your living space, keeping rooms below noticeably cooler. An attic fan can also reduce the strain on insulation and roof materials, ultimately prolonging their life.
2. Block Out Solar Heat
Limit indoor heat gain by covering windows with reflective blinds, blackout curtains, or thermal drapes. If possible, install outdoor shade solutions like awnings or shade sails. Anything that can help to block out the sun will likely reduce the temperature slightly in your home during the middle of the day.
3. Hydrate and Adjust Your Routine
Drink plenty of water throughout the day and avoid caffeine and alcohol, which can dehydrate you. Shift physical activity to early mornings or late evenings. Cooking with a microwave, air fryer, or outdoor grill instead of the stove or oven can help minimize indoor heat generation.
4. Use Fans Strategically
Place box fans in windows facing outward during the evening to draw hot air out, and use ceiling fans to circulate cooler indoor air. Combine fans with bowls of ice for a DIY cooling effect. However, avoid using fans in enclosed rooms with temperatures above 95°F, as they can blow hot air without providing real cooling and may be dangerous for vulnerable individuals.
5. Plan for Long-Term Comfort With Central AC
While these temporary solutions can help, installing a central air conditioning system is the most effective way to maintain a safe and comfortable indoor temperature during extreme heat. Professional installation ensures the system is sized correctly for your home, operates efficiently, and meets current building and energy codes. A qualified HVAC technician can also recommend additional energy-saving upgrades, such as a programmable thermostat or ductwork improvements.
Contact Kennihan Plumbing & Heating, Inc. today to schedule an appointment with our professionals. We treat your home like it’s our grandma’s home.