How to Make a Room Cooler
1. Get Air Conditioning
The most obvious way to cool down a room is by investing in an air conditioning system. This technology blows cold, temperature-controlled air through vents throughout your home, instantly making rooms more comfortable. (Unfortunately, it can be expensive; every year, homeowners across the U.S. spend almost $30 billion on AC!)
2. Buy a Fan
If you're looking for an easy, cost-effective way to cool your home, consider buying a fan; all you'll have to do is plug it in and turn it on to get comfortable, cool air right in your room. (Also consider more advanced models that will let you adjust the strength or oscillate air.)
3. Open the Windows
When there's a gentle, chill breeze outside, you can quickly cool your rooms by opening the windows. (This trick also supplies you with fresh air and natural light – though of course, it only works when the weather is nice!)
4. Move Your Bed
Studies show that you get the best sleep in a cool room; if the summer heat is preventing you from falling snoozing, try moving your bed closer to the window. Since temperatures tend to be colder at night, the natural breeze can help ease you to dreamland.
5. When AC Is On, Keep the Windows Closed
Is your home warm even when the air conditioning is on full blast? Before you turn your AC on, make sure the windows are closed. (When they're open, that chill air leaks outside, which wastes money and fails to cool your home effectively.)
6. Close the Vents
When you turn on the AC, cold air flows through your vents and cools down every room, so if you're not using certain areas of your home, you should close those vents to redirects the air into rooms you are using (and make them even cooler).
7. Buy a Cooling Mattress
Our bodies naturally create heat, especially when they're underneath warm blankets; this heat can spread to our mattresses, causing body temperatures to rise even more. Cooling mattresses counteract that disruptive cycle, keeping you comfortable throughout the night.
8. Adjust Your Fan to the Season
Did you know that ceiling fans produce heat when they spin clockwise? When using a fan, always ensure that the settings are appropriate for the season; it should spin clockwise during winter and counterclockwise in the summer.
9. Place Ice in Front of a Fan
Are you in need of cold air, but your fan isn't doing the trick? Try this easy hack for making a homemade AC unit: take a bucket of ice and place it in front of the fan! (As air blows through the ice, it will cool further, creating refreshing, chilly air.)
10. Remove Rugs
In the winter, you probably like walking on soft, toasty rugs, as carpeting absorbs heat, which can spread to your feet and keep you warm. When you want to stay cool, remove your rugs and enjoy the feel of the bare, chilled floor instead.
11. Trade Out Your Comforters
Do you sleep with a heavy comforter? It might be time to change that. While comforters are cozy, they increase your body heat and make it more difficult to sleep during the summer. Instead, consider exchanging them for lighter blankets.
Common Questions About Cooling Down Your Home
What are the best ways to naturally keep my living space feeling cooler during hot weather without relying solely on air conditioning?
Maximizing natural airflow and blocking direct sunlight are key strategies for a cooler home. Open windows on opposite sides of your home during cooler parts of the day, like early morning and evening, to create a cross-breeze. Utilize blackout curtains or blinds on sun-facing windows to prevent heat from entering, and consider lighter-colored bedding and upholstery that reflect heat rather than absorb it.
When choosing new furniture or decor, what materials and colors are best for a room that tends to get very warm?
Opt for furniture and decor in light, neutral colors like whites, creams, grays, and pastels, as these reflect sunlight and heat. Natural, breathable materials such as linen, cotton, and light woods are excellent choices as they don't retain heat as much as synthetics or dark, heavy fabrics. Consider incorporating plants, which can also help slightly cool the air through transpiration.
How can I arrange my furniture and decor to improve air circulation and make a stuffy room feel more comfortable and airy?
Ensure there's ample space around your furniture for air to flow freely; avoid pushing large pieces directly against walls. Position seating areas away from direct sunlight and consider placing a fan strategically to create a gentle breeze that circulates air throughout the room. Keeping pathways clear also contributes to a more open and less stuffy atmosphere.
Are there any specific types of rugs or flooring that are better for keeping a room cooler, especially in the summer months?
Yes, natural fiber rugs made from materials like jute, sisal, or seagrass are excellent for keeping a room cooler as they are breathable and don't trap heat. Hardwood or tile flooring naturally stays cooler than carpet and is easier to clean, making it a practical choice for warmer climates or rooms prone to heat. If you prefer carpet, opt for lighter colors and lower pile options.
Beyond immediate comfort, what long-term considerations should I keep in mind when designing a home to be more energy-efficient and cooler?
Investing in energy-efficient windows and proper insulation are crucial for long-term temperature regulation and reduced energy bills. Consider ceiling fans, which are more energy-efficient than air conditioning and help circulate air effectively. Strategically planting trees or installing awnings can also provide shade and significantly reduce solar heat gain over time.