Under the hot Okanagan summer sunshine, many households will turn on their air conditioning in an attempt to beat the heat. But there are also other, budget-friendly ways to stay cool:
• Install ceiling fans: Use ceiling fans to circulate the cool air. Fan blades should operate in a counter-clockwise direction to move the air downwards and maximize air circulation so your air conditioner doesn’t have to work as hard.
• Head downstairs: Since hot air rises, the upper stories of a home will be warmer than the ground floor.
• Have a BBQ: Barbecuing outdoors in the summer is much more efficient than using a conventional stove, which will warm up the house and can cause the air conditioner to work even harder.
• Close the windows/blinds: Keep windows closed during the day to keep the cool air in and unwanted hot air out. Close curtains or blinds on the windows that are receiving direct sunlight.
