The Jersey Shore is a summer destination for a reason. The summer temperatures are consistently sky high and perfect for days spent sunbathing, running through the ocean waves, and enjoying a long day at the water park. As fun as it is to enjoy the summer weather as often as possible, there comes a time where everyone wants to spend a day relaxing on the couch or enjoy a night’s rest in the comfort of their air-conditioned home. However, even the best functioning HVAC system could use a little help.
If you’ve found yourself warmer than you’d like throughout the summer months, the below tips will help you prepare your summer for the heat ahead:
Switch Out Your Curtains
Despite common misconceptions, all curtains are not created equal. Sheer curtains will not have the same insulating effect as lined curtain options, such as thermal and black-out curtains. Choosing black-out curtains for your sunniest windows can block the sun and heat from radiating throughout your home.
Cooling curtains are an inexpensive way to reduce the amount of heat that permeates your home. There are a variety of style options available within the black-curtain category.
Address Cracks and Failing Insulation
Cracks, crevices, gaps, and failing insulation create opportunities for cold air to leak from your home and hot air to seep its way in. If you’re unsure about the state of your home’s insulation, you can reach out to an energy auditor or your utility company. An energy auditor will be able to identify the parts of your house that will benefit from additional insulation. After you know the areas that need it most, you can reach out to a contractor to install batt insulation, loose-fill insulation, or seal cracks with caulk.
Service and Inspect Your Air Conditioner Ahead of Time
Don’t wait until the hottest day of the year to turn on your air conditioner for the first time. It’s always a good idea to schedule a tune-up or service appointment ahead of the summer season to ensure that your HVAC unit is in working order. Regular maintenance of your air conditioner will prolong its life, maintain its efficiency, and reduce the likelihood of expensive and unexpected repairs.
Install Ceiling Fans
Ceiling fans rotating in a clockwise direction are the best for circulating cool air throughout your home. If you don’t have ceiling fans, portable fans can work wonders too. Situate fans on either side of the room facing the same direction to create a draft that will quickly cool any room.
Opt for Energy-Efficient Windows
Updated windows, especially those with Low-E coatings, will improve your home’s efficiency. Old windows can have failed seals and drafts that allow cool air to escape and hot air to enter your home. With new windows, you can prolong the lifespan of your HVAC unit and improve its performance because it won’t have to work so hard to cool your home.
Do you want to know more about the best ways to cool your home this summer? Contact our team today for a FREE estimate and more information about our full suite of air conditioning services, including AC repair and AC installation near Toms River, NJ.