A Few Tips For Keeping Cool this Summer Without Running Up the AC Bill

Summer. What's the first thing that comes to your mind when you hear or think about it? Some may say the end of school, the beach, or just sitting out by the pool catching some sun. Well that sun can be a bit of a pain, at least when it comes to your air-conditioning bill every month. The good news is that there a couple of ways for you to stay cool in the heat AND save money on that monthly AC bill.

• Keep in mind that windows let in more heat than you think. Make sure to close your blinds or curtains. The white on the back of the curtains can actually reduce the heat entering your house by up to 45 percent.
• A great way to avoid heating up your home internally is to air dry as much as you can. For instance, if you have ever felt the heat from your laundry room while both the washer and dryer are going, it's hot yeah! If you can keep your laundry loads small, you can make a line outside or hang the clothes on hangers and allow them to air dry.
• If you have a fire place in your home, it could be bringing in heat. The fire place may be the last thing you think about during the summer, but it could be sucking in heat to your home. Make sure to close the damper and avoid the unnecessary and unwanted heat.
• As your laptop sits and runs, it is producing heat. The bottom of the laptop where its fan runs gets pretty hot and can spread the heat love. Be sure to power it down before you walk away from it.
• Water, water, water! Water is one of the best ways to keep your body cool and hydrated. Alcohol, sodas, and anything with sugars and caffeine can deplete you of hydration. Another great idea is to keep a spray bottle of water in the refrigerator. When you start to feel warm, spay some on your wrists.
• Make sure to dress according to the temperature. If it is excruciatingly hot outside, stray away from pants and long sleeves. They heat your body up quickly and cause it to kick in to overdrive to cool you off. Also, dark colors tend to draw in heat quickly. Besides, summer time means it's time for fun and bright colors.
• When it comes to your diet during the summer, foods with lots of water in them are perfect. Salads, fruits, vegetables, etc. are great for keeping cool and it also may help to stay a little healthier. You will stay cooler, therefore, running your AC less.

I get it. We live in South Louisiana. Our weather is temperamental and our summers are crazy hot! That doesn't mean your AC has to suffer. Your home won't turn into an igloo by following these tips, but they will help more than you think.

Happy Summer!