Midsummer nights can be unbearably hot but several weeks before and after have comfortable and breezy night temperatures. Turn the air conditioner off at night and open the windows if possible. Additionally, it’s recommended to turn the air conditioner off while no one is home to prevent the air conditioner from being overworked, ensuring it gets a break. Alternatively, if you’re traveling and live somewhere with frequent scorching temperatures, such as the desert, it might be helpful to consider keeping the air conditioner running at a higher 70-degree temperature. This will help prevent candles from melting and hygiene products from leaking.
6. Note the Time of Day
More energy is used in the afternoon and toward the end of the day because temperatures are the hottest, and people are home from work and school. However, some activities won’t require the air conditioner and can be done enjoying the afternoon together. For example, places with water are great places to cool off and spend the afternoon waiting for the sun to set. This might include a local river, lake, or community swimming pool.
7. Close Windows
After a night of sleep thanks to the breezy open windows, closing them will help reduce how much heat comes into the house from the Sun.
8. Close Blinds
Additionally, closing blinds will keep the sunlight to a minimum and prevent the air conditioner from overworking during the hottest time of day.
9. Use a Ceiling Fan with the Air Conditioner
Ceiling fans fans do an ideal job of helping circulate cool air and therefore are a great supplement to using the air conditioner without overworking it.
10. Cook with Care
Another great way to ensure the air conditioner is running efficiently is to plan meals around appliance usage. For example, consider meals that use smaller appliances like microwaves and slow cookers rather than heating the oven. Or cook large meals early in the day so the heat from the oven can dissipate before the house heats up. Alternatively, planning cold meals, such as salads or charcuterie boards, will help minimize the need to use heat-producing appliances.
