Tips to Stay Cool & Save Energy During Summer
The pain of summer heat can be tremendous here in Gainesville, and we all know the struggles of trying to stay cool. Therefore, Gator Air and Energy has compiled a list of some of the best things that can both keep your body from overheating and keep your budget from melting this summer.
1. Homemade Air Conditioning
An effective way to stay cool without using air conditioning is to break out a fan and some ice. Taking on the DIY route to a cool summer lets you complete a fun project that also doubles as an effective room-cooling system.
2. Ventilation
Keeping your windows open is a time-tested technique for stopping the hot air from becoming too stifling. A gentle breeze is one of the best and most natural ways to cut back on the heat and, at the very least, to continue air circulation. Stagnant air not only feels hotter than moving air, but it is also dangerous in that it can be a breeding ground for bacteria, especially mold. The best time to leave the windows open is at night, when the temperature is much cooler. Sometimes, if the windows are open at night, the house cools down enough that you can close the windows in the morning. Not only is this free, but it’s also the perfect way to save energy by not using electricity.
3. Timing
If you love to exercise or be active outside, you may have to adjust your schedule during the summer to compensate for the extreme temperature changes. Try to be outside for long periods of time only in the evening or early morning when the weather is cooler. Generally, the day is at its hottest at 3:00 PM, so avoid being outside during that time if you can.
4. Hydration
Of course, staying hydrated is paramount when keeping cool in the summer. Drink plenty of water daily. Mayoclinic.org recommends that men drink 3 liters per day and women drink 2.2 liters per day; however, those amounts should probably increase during the summer when water gets drained from your body due to the heat. Also, in hotter temperatures, avoid caffeine and alcohol as much as possible, because those actually dehydrate the body rather than hydrate.
5. Free Air Conditioning
If you don’t have any air conditioning, you can usually find a place in town that does. For instance, if you live in Gainesville, you could go to the Gainesville Public Library, the Oaks Mall, or many of the small businesses in downtown Gainesville. These all provide great access to free A/C and a fun way to learn what your town has to offer.
6. Swimming!
Here in Gainesville, we are lucky to be close to many different springs, especially those just north of Gainesville in the High Springs area. Ginnie, Blue, Poe, and Rum Island Springs are all examples of beautiful, crystal clear waters that stay 72° year round. The first two have an entrance fee of $13 and $10, respectively, while the latter two are completely free. The rates for Ginnie and Blue Springs vary for the different age groups, and they get cheaper the younger the children are. Springs are an especially entertaining way to cool down, but here in Florida, we’re fortunate enough to be completely surrounded by water, so going to the beach, lake, or river guarantees the chance to have a fun day with the family while staying cool.
Contact Gator Air & Energy
While all of the above options are affordable, enjoyable, and effective, we must say that the best way to stay cool is with an air conditioning system. So, if you are able to make the investment, or you are just considering buying a HVAC system, contact Gator Air and Energy, your local Gainesville A/C professionals, for an estimate.
