Tips for Dealing with the Georgia Heat in August

Summers are long, hot and humid in Stockbridge, GA. By mid- to late-August, you’ll be looking for a break from the heat and humidity. Read on to learn three cooling tips on how you can deal with the Georgia heat in August without paying a higher electricity bill.

Increase Ventilation

Even if you have a high-efficiency air conditioning system, turning the thermostat lower will run up your electricity bills and increase the need for timely AC repairs. Increasing the ventilation in your home is a simple way to feel cooler without lowering the thermostat. The Department of Energy explains that ceiling fans create convection, which helps your body cool itself. The cool air near your body absorbs heat radiated by your skin, so you feel cooler.

Block the Sunlight

Close your home’s curtains, drapes or blinds between 10:00 am and 4:00 pm, which is when the sun’s heat is the most intense. This is especially important to do on the south and west sides of your home, which gets the most direct sunlight. Doing this prevents the sunlight from increasing your home’s temperature. You may want to invest in room-darkening curtains, which block almost all of the sunlight. Using these curtains in your bedroom may also help you sleep better at night.

Avoid Using Heat-generating Appliances

When it’s time to prepare dinner, avoid using the oven and cooktop as much as possible. Instead, eat chilled foods. A toaster or microwave is good alternatives if you need to heat your meal. You could also grill outdoors. Run your dishwasher overnight. Minimize the use of the clothes dryer. Clothes racks and lines are a cost-conscious and environmentally-friendly alternative, and your clothes will last longer if you use them. Consider switching from incandescent light bulbs to LED bulbs. Incandescent bulbs release 90% of their energy as heat, but LED bulbs will not heat a room.

To learn more cooling tips, take a look at Jones Climate Control’s AC repair services, or call us for additional info.