How to Beat the Heat
Here in Kansas, we expect July to be hot, but this year it feels more repressive as the breaks from heat are further apart and nighttime heat remains high.
We are not alone. All around the U.S. and Europe this heat wave is extreme. London hit 104 degrees Tuesday– highest temperature ever. There are fires everywhere. Droughts and near famine are taking their toll. All creatures are suffering, and a good part of the problem is caused by a warming world. Policy makers need to make changes at a faster pace, and people need to encourage (and vote) them to do so.
In the meanwhile, we can take actions to keep cooler while saving both money and energy. Below are ways to be more energy efficient and comfortable at the same time.
Keep the air-conditioner serviced and clean; use a programable thermostat; don't automatically turn the thermostat way down.
Use ceiling fans (blades set to go counter-clockwise in summer). Consider battery-powered backup fans for outages – think solar powered battery chargers.
Use thermal curtains to block the sun. Replace single-paned windows and consider energy-efficient window upgrades.
Make sure windows and doors are sealed and duct work is insulated.
Turn off lights when out of the room and consider replacing all lamps with LED bulbs.
Wait for a cooler day to do baking, use the stove top less, and cover pans.
Water early or late (some plants do not do well when watered at night– check). Be a kid again and run through the sprinkler when you water your plants.
Dress in loose-fitting and airy clothing, avoid synthetic fabrics, keep hydrated and wear sunscreen.
Plant trees. Yes, they take time to grow – plan for the future.
Earth Steward Action: How many things are you already doing on the list? Pass on the list to others.
Sources: Https://urbansurvivalsite.com/ways-to-stay-cool-without-power
https://windycityhome.com/2019/05/21/keep-home-cool-increase-energy-efficiency/