The weather has been heating up and the humidity continues to rise! It’s days like these that we are quick to turn on the A/C for a quick fix, but what if you could keep cool in your home without having to constantly run the A/C and spend money? Well you’re in luck!  Here is a list of some of the most cost effective ways to keep your home cool during these hot months:

• Keep Sun Out – One of the simplest ways to keep your home cool is to keep the hot air out and the cold air in.  During the day when the sun is beaming down keep your windows, blinds, and shades closed. Preventing or altering the sunlight from entering during the day will keep the home cooler.
• Open Windows – During the cooler nights open up the windows to allow that cool breeze to flow through your home and when it starts warming up again close them to trap the cold air in.
• Utilize The Fan – Ceiling fans, window fans, even free-standing fans can make a big difference. The simple act of moving the air can have a cooling effect on your skin, making it feel several degrees cooler than the actual temperature.  Taking the fan idea a step further, put a bowl of ice or a frozen milk jug in front of it. This is an easy way to get the cold air blowing without having to turn on the A/C.
• If It’s Not In Use, Unplug It – Turn off electric appliances during the day when no one is home, appliances generate a lot of heat. One appliance that obviously generates the most heat is the oven/stove, try to avoid using it as much as possible to keep cool.
• Plant Trees – Where the sun beams down the strongest on your home is a perfect place to plant a tree. Deciduous trees are a great investment! They provide shade for your house during the hot summer months and when the temperature begins to drop during the autumn months the leaves fall off and let the sun through to offer some solar heat gain.

It’s summer and no one wants to sit inside all day, even when it seems as though the heat is just unbearable. There are many different ways to enjoy the summer weather, even when the temperature is soaring. Here are several of ways to keep cool while sitting outside and enjoying your day:

• Sprinkler – A classic ways to cool off during a hot summers day is to run through the sprinkler! This can be something fun for both the kids and adults to enjoy.
• Umbrella – Invest in a patio umbrella to prevent the sun from directly beaming down on you.
• Home-made Slip-and-Slide – Set out a tarp or plastic in the yard and pour soap and water on it and enjoy a home made slip and slide! (Just make sure to check for rocks and other potential hazards before you lay it down)
• Wash your car – it’s a great way to cool off and it saves you a few bucks!
• Water Fight – Have a friendly water balloon or squirt gun fight.
• Kiddie Pool – Fill up the kiddie pool, dip your feet in while reading a book and work on a nice tan.
• Homemade Popsicles – Have some fun and be creative, making your own popsicles is not only fun, but a great way to keep you cool!

Keeping cool during the hot summer days doesn’t have to cost you a fortune. Stay cool indoors and outdoors with these tips and enjoy your summer!