10 Tips for Keeping Your Home Cool in Summer

Keeping your home cool during the summer is important, but it's also crucial to reduce your impact on the environment. Check out my tips for reducing heat and keeping your home cooler , in a sustainable way, while saving money and helping to preserve the planet .

Index

• 10 Tips to cool down your home and beat the summer heat
  1. Close blinds and curtains
  2. Block heat entry
  3. Close doors and seal openings
  4. Use Air Conditioning sparingly
  5. Use fans
  6. Take advantage of the night to cool the house
  7. Refresh the
  8. Cool bed , restful sleep
  9. Optimize the efficiency of electrical appliances
  10. Bonus
• Why are houses in Portugal so hot ?
• Benefits of a well-cooled home
• Technological applications for managing your home's climate
• Conclusion
• Frequently asked questions about cooling a home in the summer

10 Tips to Cool Down Your Home and Beat the Summer Heat

(Topâ–²)1. Close Blinds and Curtains

• 76% of the light that shines through windows enters the house to be transformed into heat. Keep the blinds closed during the day, especially on windows facing east and west (the hours when the sun is lowest), to block the heat from entering.
• Invest in curtains made of fabrics that reflect sunlight and are light in color, to protect the house from intense sun and reduce the need for air conditioning.

(Topâ–²) 2. Block heat entry

Direct exposure to sunlight, especially during the hottest hours, can considerably increase the interior temperature of your home. To mitigate this effect, here are some effective suggestions:

• Invest in adhesive films with solar filter for your window panes. These films can block up to 78% of solar heat and 99% of harmful UV rays and act as a shield, reducing heat input and protecting from the harmful effects of UV rays.
• Invest in thermal insulation on the walls and ceiling to optimize energy efficiency, keeping the house cool in the summer and warm in the winter. Use thermal insulation boards, such as the ETICS system (commonly known as CAPPOTTO®), on facades with greater sun exposure. These not only provide thermal insulation, but also waterproof the walls and minimize humidity and condensation in winter.
• Create shade around windows and exterior walls with outdoor shutters, awnings or large potted plants that can block direct sunlight. The same strategy is valid for the interior of the house, next to windows with greater sun exposure.
• Plant deciduous trees near the house, as they will provide shade in the summer and, when losing their leaves in winter, will allow the entry of sunlight.
• If you are thinking of painting the house, consider using reflective paints in light tones, preferably in white, for the exterior walls. These paints contain pigments that reflect a greater amount of sunlight, helping to keep the house cool.

(Topâ–²)3. Close doors and seal openings

• Close the doors of less-used rooms to direct fresh air to the spaces where you need it most.
• Check for gaps in doors and windows and place caulking strips, reducing the entry of hot air in the summer and the exit of cold air in the winter. Be aware that, in the absence of airflow from the outside, you should periodically ventilate your home (preferably every day) to prevent the appearance of mold and mildew.
• Consider replacing windows with more efficient models, which include double glazing and thermal break frames. Tilt and turn windows, which open both horizontally and vertically, are an excellent choice, as they facilitate the necessary ventilation to cool the house in the summer.

(Topâ–²)4. Use Air Conditioning Sparingly

• For an ideal temperature in your home, set the thermostat between 24ºC and 27ºC, or to the highest value at which you feel comfortable. Wearing clothes appropriate to the ambient temperature helps minimize the use of this system.
• Choose an air conditioner with a high energy rating and, if possible, opt for a model with an inverter, which adjusts the power according to the need, allowing you to keep the house cool while saving energy.
• If your room gets very hot during the day, use the air conditioner to cool it down minutes before going to bed and then turn it off.
• Use air filters in the air conditioning systems to ensure that the circulating air is clean and fresh, and don't forget to change the filters annually.

(Topâ–²)5. Use Fans

• Floor or standing:
  • Try to buy class A equipment, which is more energy efficient. Choose devices with adjustable speed or equipped with a misting system, which cools and humidifies the ambient air by spraying water particles into the air.
  • Use a trick: Place a shallow bowl or pan of ice in front of the fan to create a chilly breeze that cools the room without using a lot of energy. Position the fan and ice bowl so that the cold air is directed to the places where you spend the most time, such as social areas or the bedroom.
• Use ceiling fans
  • Adjust ceiling fans to rotate counterclockwise in the summer, creating a downward airflow that cools the room.
  • In winter, set them to rotate clockwise to pull cold air upward and redistribute warm air that collects on the ceiling.
  • Adjust the fan speed according to the climate: high in warmer regions, such as the south of Portugal, and low in regions with a milder climate.

(Topâ–²) 6. Taking advantage of the night to cool down the house

• When the temperature drops at night, it's the ideal time to open windows and doors and allow fresh air to enter, naturally cooling the house.
• Cook outdoors whenever possible, using grills and stoves, to avoid raising the temperature inside the house.
• Avoid using ovens, washing machines, and clothes dryers and other appliances that generate heat during the hottest hours of the day. Instead, opt for cooking in the microwave or on the stove, air-dry your clothes, or use these appliances only at night. To minimize energy expenditure, consider contracting electricity supply on a bi-hourly basis.

(Topâ–²)7. Cool the Body

• Drink cold beverages and water, lots of water, and consume fresh foods like fruits and vegetables to keep your body temperature lower.
• Apply a damp cloth to the neck, wrists, and temples, as these pressure points help to efficiently cool the body.
• Take cold baths or quick showers to lower body temperature and reduce the need for air conditioning.
• Opt for light and loose clothing, with light colors, made from breathable fabrics like cotton, to allow better air circulation and help keep body temperature low.

(Topâ–²)8. Fresh Bed, Restful Sleep

If you're looking for creative ways to keep your bed cool during hot summer nights, here are some suggestions:

• Swap your bedding for cotton or silk sheets, which are cooler and allow air to circulate, providing a more comfortable night's sleep.
• Wrap sheets and pillowcases in an airtight bag and place them in the freezer for about half an hour before going to bed. When it's time to sleep, the sheets will be pleasantly cool, without being damp, ensuring a more comfortable night's sleep.
• Use fabric bags filled with rice grains. Place them in the freezer for at least six hours and, before going to bed, carefully distribute them under the sheets and around the bed. Rice keeps the cold for a prolonged period, providing a feeling of freshness.
• Finally, consider investing in a mattress protector made from breathable and waterproof material. This type of protector helps regulate the temperature of the mattress, preventing it from becoming too hot during the night.

(Topâ–²) 9. Optimize the efficiency of electrical appliances

• Replace incandescent bulbs with energy-saving bulbs, such as LED or CFL, which emit less heat and consume less energy. By opting for low-consumption bulbs, you help reduce internal heating and save on your energy bill.
• Replace older appliances with newer models that have a higher energy class. The more efficient they are, the less energy they consume and the less heat they generate inside the house.
• Replace the gas boiler for sanitary water heating with a heat pump. In addition to being a more economical and efficient solution, it releases less heat into the interior of the house, especially if it is not located in a basement.

(Topâ–²)10. Bonus

And finally, here's a "bonus" with 10 more ideas to help you refresh your home:

1. If your house still has an oven, go out and look for gardens and leafy areas , close to water courses, take the opportunity to shop and take care of business, in air-conditioned buildings, etc.
2. Turn off electronic devices when they are not in use, as they can also generate heat and contribute to heating the house. E.g. Televisions, TV boxes, computers, etc.
3. Turn your bed mattress over. Nowadays, there are mattress models with different sides for each time of year, one for winter and another for summer. Each side has layers of different materials, which allow you to retain more heat, or offer greater breathability and freshness, on the other hand.
4. Remove and store rugs for the winter. Especially in social areas, a rug can be a comfortable solution in winter but does not contribute to the feeling of freshness that a floor can give, especially if it has a stone or ceramic covering.
5. Use cooling materials . Consider using pillows and mattresses made from materials that dissipate heat, such as cooling gel or ventilated memory foam. Rugs made from natural fibers, such as sisal or jute, are cooler to the touch and can help keep your home cooler.
6. Pay attention to your diet . Avoid heavy foods and opt for lighter meals, such as salads and grilled foods, which are easier to digest and do not increase body temperature. Fruits such as watermelon, strawberries and oranges are rich in water and can help with hydration.
7. Physical exercise . If you like to exercise, choose to do it during the cooler hours of the day, such as early in the morning or late afternoon. Water exercises, such as swimming, are an excellent option for staying active without suffering from the heat.
8. Staying hydrated is crucial in the summer. Place bottles of water in the freezer and use them as ice blocks to cool the room.Place them in front of a fan for a cooler breeze. Always have a bottle of water nearby and consider adding a few slices of lemon or mint for a refreshing taste.
9. Use indoor plants. Some indoor plants, such as Aloe Vera, Sword of Saint George, Anthuriums, Chrysanthemums, Dracaenas and Begonias can help to refresh the environment. Furthermore, they purify the air and increase oxygen levels, making the space more pleasant. Place potted plants in strategic areas of the home, such as near windows and entrances, to maximize their cooling effect.
10. Install an attic fan . Attics can get quite hot in the summer. All of this heat will likely spread throughout your home, increasing the overall temperature.In addition to insulating your attic, you can also invest in an attic fan or fan. These fans work by evacuating hot air from the attic and drawing in cold air from outside.

By following these suggestions, you can keep your home cooler during the summer, save money and contribute to preserving the environment. Remember that every action counts and, together, we can make a difference in the fight against climate change.

(Topâ–²)Why are houses in Portugal so hot?

Houses in Portugal are often built with heat-retaining materials , such as stone and concrete, which can accumulate heat during the day and become very hot at night. Furthermore, many homes in Portugal were designed without taking into account the hot climate and the need for adequate cooling. Recently, the construction of wooden houses has gained new momentum , thanks to the use of treated wood that offers the best of both worlds: houses with a high degree of sustainability and excellent thermal insulation characteristics.

Another factor to consider is that, in many homes in Portugal, air conditioning or ventilation systems are insufficient or even non-existent. This means that, during periods of intense heat, it becomes difficult to cool homes without high energy consumption. Additionally, many people in Portugal choose to keep windows closed during the day to prevent heat from entering, which can make the indoor environment even hotter.

Fortunately, there are solutions to cool homes, such as installing thermal insulation, using reflective paints and implementing efficient air conditioning systems. It's important to consider these solutions to ensure your home stays comfortable during hot summer days.

(Topâ–²) Benefits of a well-cooled home

Keeping a home well-cooled during the hottest months of the year is not just a matter of personal comfort. The benefits go much further and can have a significant impact on your health, energy efficiency and even the value of your property. Let's explore each of these aspects in detail.

Personal comfort - Thermal comfort is fundamental to well-being indoors. A well-cooled home provides a refuge from the extreme heat outside, allowing you to relax, sleep better and be more productive in your daily activities.

Health and well-being - High temperatures indoors can lead to a range of health problems, such as dehydration, heat exhaustion and even heatstroke. Furthermore, excessive heat can aggravate chronic conditions such as asthma and cardiovascular disease. Keeping your home cool helps mitigate these risks.

Energy Efficiency - A well-cooled home does not necessarily mean high energy consumption. Through efficient cooling strategies, such as adequate thermal insulation, the use of reflective curtains and natural ventilation, it is possible to keep the house cool and, at the same time, reduce the electricity bill.

Property Value - Features that contribute to a well-cooled home, such as efficient air conditioning systems, thermal insulation and smart design, can increase the value of your property. These are factors that are increasingly valued by buyers and can be a differentiator at the time of sale.

Indoor air quality - A well-cooled environment is often also a well-ventilated environment. This contributes to better indoor air quality, reducing the presence of pollutants, which is especially beneficial for people with allergies or respiratory problems.

Environmental sustainability - By opting for more efficient and sustainable cooling methods, you are not only saving money, but also contributing to the reduction of carbon emissions. This is beneficial for the environment and aligns with global efforts to combat climate change.

Conclusion - As we can see, the benefits of keeping the house well cooled are multiple and varied, positively affecting our quality of life, the energy efficiency of the home and even its market value. Investing in a good cooling system is, without a doubt, investing in a more comfortable, healthy and sustainable future.

(Top▲) Technological applications to manage your home’s climate

With the advancement of technology, managing the climate in your home has never been so easy and efficient. Nowadays, there are several mobile applications and smart devices that not only allow you to monitor, but also control the internal environment of your home. Let's explore some of these options.

Smart Thermostats

Smart thermostats, like Nest or Ecobee, let you adjust the temperature of your home's HVAC system directly from your smartphone. These devices learn your behavior patterns and automatically adjust to maximize both comfort and energy efficiency. Plus, they provide detailed reports on your energy consumption, helping you make more informed choices.

Mobile Applications for Climate Control

There are several mobile applications that connect to your home's air conditioning systems. Apps such as "Daikin Onecta", "Toshiba Home AC Control", "Tado" or "Honeywell Home" allow you to control the air conditioning, heating and even the humidity in your home, all from your smartphone. These apps also offer features like time scheduling and geolocation to automatically adjust settings based on your location.

Air Quality Sensors

Devices like "Awair", "Dyson Pure Cool" or "XIAOMI Air Purifier 4 Compact" not only monitor the air quality inside the home, but also connect with other smart devices to improve ventilation and air filtration, if necessary. These devices are particularly useful for people with allergies or asthma.

Virtual Assistants

Virtual assistants such as "Amazon's Alexa" or "Google Assistant" can be integrated with various air conditioning devices, allowing you to control your home's climate through voice commands. For example, you can ask Alexa to adjust the thermostat or turn on the fan without even touching your phone.

Remote Monitoring

Some advanced systems allow you to remotely monitor your home’s climate. This is a feature increasingly available through Home Automation systems. This is particularly useful if you are away from home and want to ensure that your indoor environment remains comfortable and safe. These systems can send alerts to your phone in case of extreme temperatures or inappropriate humidity levels.

Integration with Other Home Systems

Many climate control devices can be integrated with other smart home systems, such as lighting and security. This allows for more comprehensive control of your home environment through a single interface.

The use of home automation in a home offers the possibility of automating and managing a variety of equipment. The goal is to not only cool your home, but also save on your electricity bills. For example:

• If you have electric blinds , you can program them to close and open automatically according to the periods of the day when sun exposure is most intense.
• If you have a central heating system, it may be possible to install thermostats on the radiators that are compatible with your home automation system. Therefore, you can program the temperature automatically, taking into account the time of day and the desired temperature.
• If you have modern air conditioning units, find out about the possibility of connecting them with the home automation system, or through a smartphone application. This will allow you to automate their programming and operation, making your home's climate management even more efficient. .

(Topâ–²) Conclusion

Technology offers a wide range of options to make your home's climate management more efficient and comfortable. By investing in smart devices and mobile applications, you not only improve your daily well-being, but also contribute to a more sustainable lifestyle.

(Topâ–²) Frequently asked questions about cooling a house in summer

body