The summer heat is on its way. Keeping your cool this summer so you can enjoy the season should be a goal on everyone’s list. The summer heat can be oppressive. Luckily you are a few home updates away from staying cool this summer.
Here are some home updates that will help you enjoy your summer.
Replace Your Windows
If your air conditioner is just not keeping the heat out, it may not be your HVAC; it may be your windows. According to the Department of Energy, about 25%-30% of heat and cooling losses are due to faulty windows. Old windows with gaps can be energy vampires and keep your home from reaching a comfortable temperature.
New windows are great home updates any time of the year. New windows will help reduce your energy bill, make your home more comfortable, and even keep out street noise. There are many good reasons to consider window replacement, but none are more important than your comfort.
Check Your HVAC
It is a good time to check your HVAC system. A tune-up and inspection of your HVAC will ensure that the air is blowing cold and ready for the upcoming summer season. Nothing is worse than your AC taking a dive on the hottest day of the year. Competition for repairs can be strong during the height of the season, which can delay repairs for days.
According to Bob Vila, HVAC systems, on average last between 15-25 years. The older the system, the more likely you will encounter problems. Connecting with an HVAC specialist to maintain your system can extend the life of your system. It can also ensure that your AC kicks in when it is supposed to and helps you keep cool this summer.
Invest in Treatments
Not all home updates require a large investment or a professional. The right window treatments can keep your home up to ten degrees cooler in the summer. Thermal drapes, blinds, shades, and other window treatments that you can control can help you take control of the summer heat.
Keeping your window treatments closed during the hottest part of the day can reduce the amount of radiant heat coming into your home. The right window treatments are essential not only to control the summer heat but also to control the winter cold. Adding window treatments are simple home updates that will keep your home cooler.
Close The Gaps
Cool can escape the same way heat can escape from your home. Go around your home and check for gaps around windows, doors, and where pipes enter and exit your home. If you feel a draft is coming in, you can guarantee the cool will go out. Simple home updates often have a profound effect.
Caulking around windows, doors, and pipe entries can make a difference in how cool your home stays during summer. Closing the gaps with caulk is an easy solution. It will save you money and help keep you comfortable.
Get New Doors
If your old doors are worse for wear, you should consider installing new doors. If your old entry door is still in good shape, consider adding a storm door for an added layer of protection. Doors are not only important for managing heating and cooling losses, but they are also an important part of your home security.
According to the Department of Justice, if a person breaks into your home and steals $1,000-$1,500 worth of goods, that is a class B felony; if they steal more than $1,500, it is a class A felony. According to the same source, about 25% of home break-ins occur through an entry door. Getting new secure doors can help keep your home safe.
Making a few home updates will help you to enjoy the summer more and worry about the summer heat less. Learn more about home updates that will help keep you comfortable year-round.
Leave a Reply