Summer is here. The heat at home is suffocating. Do you know how to combat this problem? It is obvious that good air conditioning solves this situation. However, there are a series of things which we can do so that our home is more protected against the heat. We already know that good quality insulation helps us to save money on central heating as well as to keep our house warm. This insulation is also essential to avoid the heat in summer. If our bedroom is too hot at night, we will not be able to sleep well and thus, relax. Let´s see what we can do to make our home cooler in summer.

1. SPACES FACING THE EXTERIOR OF THE HOUSE

These spaces are one of the main points regarding insulation. If they are not properly insulated, you can waste up to five times more energy. For instance, we will refer to the windows: double glazing will isolate our house, not only concerning the temperature but also the noise from outside.

2. ADEQUATE GLASS FOR THE WINDOWS

Glass with low thermal transmission and also coloured glass will reduce the heat which may enter through the windows.

3. GOOD ADJUSTMENT

Doors and windows must be well adjusted in order to avoid the entry of heat. If you put draught excluders round the doors and windows you will feel excellent results. This installation is both cheap and simple.

4. SUN PROTECTION

Venetian blinds, slatted shutters, a canopy as well as panel curtains and shades will avoid solar radiations entering your house.

5. PLANTS IN THE TERRACE

If you have a terrace, plants will decrease the temperature considerably. When you water the plants, this water evaporates and therefore there is a drop in the temperature. If you have flower plants, these have more capacity of evaporation and the temperature will fall even more. Climbing plants and creepers are great heat insulators. This is a very easy, decorative and practical solution which we do not often take into account. Do you remember our article on plants for our home?

6. THE USE OF RENEWABLE ENERGY

If solar panels can be installed, you will sense an important decrease in the temperature during the summer season.

7. REDUCING LIGHTING AT HOME

Do we have too many light bulbs at home? Very often we have more light than is really necessary to lighten a room. If we reduce the amount of light, we will also reduce the temperature.

CONSULTED SOURCES: Colegio de Aparejadores y Arquitectos Técnicos de Madrid