Summer is a season that we all look forward to, with its warm weather, longer days, and outdoor activities. However, it is also a time when our homes are susceptible to various challenges. From heat and humidity to increased energy bills, summer can take a toll on our home's comfort and functionality. As interior designers and furnishing providers, we understand the importance of creating a comfortable and functional living space, especially during the summer season. In this blog post, we will provide some tips on how to take care of your home during summers.
Keep Your Home Cool
One of the biggest challenges during summers is keeping your home cool. According to the Department of Energy, air conditioning accounts for about 6% of the electricity produced in the United States, resulting in about $29 billion in annual energy costs. Therefore, it is essential to find ways to keep your home cool while also reducing energy consumption.
To keep your home cool, you can use various techniques, including air conditioning, ceiling fans, window treatments, and ventilation. Air conditioning is the most effective way to cool your home, but it can also be the most expensive. By using window treatments such as blinds, curtains, and shades, you can block out the sun's heat and reduce your reliance on air conditioning. According to the Department of Energy, window shades can reduce heat gain by up to 45%. Additionally, using ceiling fans and opening windows during cooler times of the day can improve ventilation and reduce your energy bills.
Protect Your Furniture
The summer season can also cause damage to your furniture due to increased exposure to sunlight and heat. According to a study by the Society of Dyers and Colourists, fabrics can lose up to 40% of their strength when exposed to sunlight for just 300 hours. Additionally, high temperatures can cause wood to expand and contract, leading to warping and cracking.
To protect your furniture during summers, you can use various techniques, including using window treatments, moving furniture away from direct sunlight, and using furniture covers. Using window treatments such as blinds and curtains can help block out UV rays and reduce the risk of fading and damage to your furniture. Moving furniture away from direct sunlight can also reduce the risk of damage due to exposure to heat and UV rays.
Stay Hydrated
Staying hydrated is essential during summers, as high temperatures and humidity can cause dehydration, leading to health problems such as heat exhaustion, heatstroke, and dizziness. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, approximately 600 people in the United States die each year from heat-related illnesses.
To stay hydrated, you can use various techniques, including drinking plenty of water, using a water filtration system, and adding indoor plants. Drinking plenty of water is essential to stay hydrated during summers. Additionally, using a water filtration system can provide clean and safe drinking water, reducing the risk of health problems caused by contaminated water. Indoor plants can also improve indoor air quality and humidity levels, leading to better health and well-being.
Maintain Your Air Conditioning System
Your air conditioning system is one of the most important appliances in your home during the summer season. It is essential to maintain your AC system regularly to ensure that it is running efficiently and effectively. According to the Department of Energy, regular maintenance of your air conditioning system can improve its efficiency by up to 15%.
To maintain your air conditioning system, you can use various techniques, including cleaning or replacing air filters, checking for leaks, and having it serviced by a professional at least once a year. Cleaning or replacing air filters can improve indoor air quality and reduce energy consumption. Checking for leaks can improve the efficiency of your AC system and reduce the risk of refrigerant leaks that can be harmful to the environment. Having your AC system serviced by a professional can ensure that it is running efficiently and identify any potential issues before they become major problems.
Add Summer-Inspired Décor
Lastly, adding summer-inspired décor to your home can make it feel fresh and inviting during the season. You can use various techniques, including adding bright colors, using natural materials, and incorporating indoor plants.
Adding bright colors such as yellow, orange, and green can add a pop of color to your home and make it feel more cheerful and welcoming. Using natural materials such as wood, wicker, and jute can add a touch of warmth and texture to your space. Additionally, incorporating indoor plants such as succulents, ferns, and palms can improve indoor air quality and add a touch of nature to your home.
In conclusion, taking care of your home during summers is essential to ensure that it is comfortable, functional, and inviting. By following these tips, you can keep your home cool, protect your furniture, stay hydrated, maintain your air conditioning system, and add summer-inspired décor to your space. As interior designers and furnishing providers, we hope that these tips will help you create a beautiful and comfortable living space during the summer season.