Prepping your home for the warmer weather

Summer is just around the corner and before we know it we will be cranking the aircon and stocking the fridge full of icy poles (and of course beers). 
As much as we all love the sunshine, we all love staying cool on those 30 degree plus days.. However, the price we pay for comfort can often be hexy if we aren’t ready for it. 

Here’s what you can do to help beat the heat, keep your bills low and conserve energy this Summer season!  

Check your air conditioning unit

Just like your car, air conditioners require regular service checks to make sure they are running properly. Fortunately you can do this yourself! Wipe down or vacuum the air vents regularly to remove any excess dust build up that may be restricting the airflow. Make sure furniture or any other objects nearby aren’t blocking the airflow of your unit. 

Backyard cook ups

The kitchen can be an awful hot place in summer by the time you have the oven, microwave, kettle, fryer and grill on. Relocate to the backyard and fire up the BBQ for a feast to keep the heat outside! All you need to prepare inside is the side salads. 

Cover up your home

The longer you keep your house dark and covered for, the cooler it will stay! Keep your windows shut and close any blinds, curtains or awnings in direct sunlight to help keep the place cool. 

Cold washes

Dishwashers, washing machines, clothes dryers, hot showers can pump out some serious heat, and energy! Try washing your clothes and dishes with cold water only and avoid the dryer completely by hanging your washing outside. Reduce your time in a hot shower and try a cold one! Although it might take your breath away and take some getting used to, it’s refreshing and rejuvenating for those hot, sticky summer months!

Switch it off if you’re not using it

Try avoid leaving the air conditioner turned on ALL day, while it’s nice to walk into a cold home, the planet and your electricity bill will thank you for it. Instead, trying buying a pedestal fan and turn it on when you walk in the door at the same time as the air conditioner. While a fan does not produce cold air, it can help with air circulation and it might be that nice little bit of fresh air you need to help feel cooler!