Beat the Heat: Ways to Avoid the Summer Heat and Save a Little Money Too

Summertime is upon us, in case you have not already noticed. That means some really hot days, summer rains, pools, and sun. It also means that our air conditioners in our homes will be working overtime to try and keep us comfortable. Everyone knows that you can go out and get into the pool to cool off, but sometimes the pool just won't do. Wouldn't it be nice if you could be just as comfortable without it costing as much every month. Here are some ways that you can beat the heat and save a little green.

Use fans: Most of us have ceiling or box fans somewhere in our house. Many times these fans never get turned on, and it's a shame. You can actually bump your thermostat up a couple of degrees if you run fans and it will feel like it's the same temperature.

Take a shower: This is a great trick to cool off. When you get out, try not to dry completely off. The remaining water droplets act like sweat and take heat away from your body when they evaporate.

Close blinds: Sunlight is great. I love it and definitely prefer it to lighting in my home, but it also generates a lot of heat. Here's a tip, only open the windows that are not letting sunlight come directly in and leave blinds closed on the windows that are taking most of the light. This will allow you to get your sunlight and also to keep most of the heat out of your home.

Do chores at night: Dry clothes and cook later in the evening or at night. These appliances generate lots of heat and this makes your air conditioner work harder. If possible you can dry your clothes on a line in the backyard, it will save money and make your clothes smell really fresh.

Go for ice cream: Get out and enjoy your favorite summertime treat whether it is ice cream, lemonade, or whatever. Many times these are cool treats that will keep you comfortable even in the worst heat.

Get out from the house: Don't worry you won't be sweating long. Do your shopping in the hottest parts of the day. All of the stores are air conditioned so take advantage of this and use their power and not yours. You can also go to a movie, museum, the mall or any other place that is an air conditioned activity. Make sure you bump your thermostat up (in degrees) before you go. Try to stay until later in the evening so that when you do come home and turn the AC back on it doesn't take too long to cool back down.

These are just a few little tips that will help you get through the summer. Try to do these things at least in the hottest part of the day which is usually from about 10 am until 2 pm. Enjoy your summer and always remember to stay hydrated.