Are you hot? The 1st day of summer is June 21st, so it’s time to start summerizing your home. (Is that a word?) There’s a lot you can do to keep your family cool without spending too much money.

Close the blinds

Simple, right?

I don’t want to bore you with statistics, but I’m going to give you some anyway. Family Handyman says that 30% of unwanted heat comes from windows. Blocking that sunlight can save you up to 7% on your utility bill, and lower the indoor temp by as much as 20 degrees!

Are you hot? Try these window things:

Keep blinds and curtains closed

Before you go to work, close all the blinds. Pull the curtains closed.

Add press-on window tinting

Here, you can get as creative as you want. There is decorative tinting that looks like stained glass. You can get 1-way tinting that lets you see out, but not in. One way window film can block out up to 85% of infrared rays and 97% of UV rays, really reducing heat and glare.

Invest in blackout curtains

Blackout curtains do what they say: block sunlight. Consumer Reports recommends neutral-colored curtains with light block backing to reduce heat up to 33%. You don’t have to spend a bundle. You can buy the fabric and make the curtains yourself, or pick them up at do-it-yourself stores anywhere.

Solar screens

Many companies are now offering sun blocking screens. These can filter up to 90% of the light coming int the room, while letting you have the window open for ventilation. Great idea!

Are you still hot?

Make sure your ceiling fans rotate counter-clockwise

You knew this, right? Ceiling fans run two different directions, to help with hot or cold weather. Set to run counter-clockwise in the summer at a higher speed, the fan will create a wind-chill breeze effect that will make you and your guests feel cooler.

Are you still hot?

Put on your apron and get grilling

Who needs an excuse to get outside and show off your master grilling talents? If you’re using the oven, it’ll heat up your house quickly. So go outside to cook!

But run your kitchen exhaust fan anyway. It’ll draw hot air out of the kitchen whether you’re cooking inside or not.

Still hot?

If you’re looking for a place to rent with air conditioning, call us, or go to: available-rentals on our website to look at what’s available in Colorado Springs. Or call us at: (719) 445-7172 for more info. It’s never been easier to rent a home! Or be cool.