How to keep your house (and your pets) cool on a budget
Summer seems to be in full swing, and as the rising temperatures rise, so can your electricity bill. There’s no need to fret about that while trying to keep you and your pets cool – we’ve got tips on how to keep your house cool on a budget.
Take a look.
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How to keep your house cool
Sometimes the most simple changes make the biggest difference in keeping your house cool.
Close your blinds and curtains
Sunlight streaming in through windows can quickly heat your home. Try blackout curtains to block the sun’s rays, or if you don’t have blackout curtains, close whatever you have during the hottest parts of the day, especially on windows facing the sun.
Create a cross-breeze
Open windows strategically by opening one window where a breeze is coming in and another on the opposite side of the house to create cross-ventilation. Using a fan at one window can help pull in cool air and push hot air out.
Switch to LED bulbs
Traditional bulbs emit heat, but LED lights are energy-efficient and produce almost no heat. This change can keep rooms cooler while lowering your electricity bill.
Use fans correctly
Ceiling fans, box fans, and oscillating fans are great at keeping the air moving, making rooms feel cooler. Ceiling fans should rotate counterclockwise in summer to create a wind-chill effect.
If you have an oscillating fan, try placing a bowl of ice cubes or a frozen water bottle in front of it for a DIY cooling system.
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Close off unused rooms
If you spend most of your time in a few main areas, close doors to rooms you’re not using. This keeps cool air concentrated where you need it most.
How to keep yourself cool
You don’t have to rely on AC to feel comfortable. Here are a few easy ways to stay cool yourself without racking up a huge electricity bill:
Stick to loose, light clothing
Breathable fabrics like cotton or linen are your best bet. Loose, light-coloured clothing helps to reflect sunlight and keeps you cool.
Stay hydrated
It might seem obvious, but drinking plenty of water helps regulate your body temperature. For an extra refresh, try freezing slices of lemon or cucumber to add to your water.
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DIY cooling compress
Freeze a washcloth, then place it on your neck, wrists, or feet to cool down. These areas have major blood vessels close to the surface, so cooling them can help cool the rest of your body.
If placing ice on your skin makes you uncomfortable, just spritz some water on those areas every so often – it’ll still make a world of difference.
Take cool showers
A quick, refreshing shower can help lower your body temperature and keep you comfortable for hours. For longer relief, rinse a cloth in cold water and drape it around your neck.
How to keep your pets cool indoors and out
Our pets feel the heat just as much as we do—sometimes more, especially with a fur coat. Whether they’re indoor loungers or outdoor adventurers, here’s how to help keep your pets cool and comfortable:
Indoor pets
Provide a cool place to rest
Set up a fan near their favourite resting area or lay down a damp towel for them to sit on. Cooling mats can be a game-changer too—these pads are filled with gel that cools when pets lie on them.
Freeze treats and toys
Make ice treats by freezing their favourite snacks in water or pet-safe broth. You can also freeze a toy or Kong filled with treats to give them something cool to chew on.
Limit exercise
Keep exercise sessions short, and if possible, avoid playtime during the hottest parts of the day. Try interactive toys that don’t require a lot of activity, like treat puzzles, to keep them engaged.
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Outdoor pets
Ensure plenty of shade
Make sure there are shaded areas in the yard where they can retreat from the sun. A covered area or large umbrella can work wonders.
Provide fresh, cool water
Hydration is key, especially outside. Place water bowls in the shade and add a few ice cubes for an extra cool-down. Consider a pet fountain if you can—flowing water stays cooler and encourages pets to drink more.
Watch out for hot surfaces
Paved areas can get extremely hot in direct sunlight, which can burn sensitive paw pads. Stick to grassy areas for playtime, or walk them in the morning or evening when surfaces are cooler.
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