Difficulty: Moderately Easy
Things You’ll Need:
- standing fan and or
- A/C replacement filter and or
- crock pot or microwave, BBQ and or
- Roll-up blinds and or
- Paint and or
- Easily digestible foods
Step1
Of course, the simplest way to stay somewhat cool is with the traditional standing fan. Even at 100% humidity and over 80 degrees Fahrenheit you can get comfort from the moving air blowing on your skin.
Step2
If you do have an air conditioner consider replacing your filter every month. They do get clogged over time. All you have to do is look on the unit and get the manufacturer's name. Some will even have what size filter it takes imprinted on a sticker. By doing this you'll lower your electric bill as well.
Step3
Limit the use of your oven. Instead, consider a crock-pot or microwave. I love to BBQ and that helps keep the warm air out of apartment.
Step4
Keep the sun out by purchasing inexpensive roll-up blinds. It's amazing how the temperature drops when you lower them.
Step5
It will also help to raise your thermostat. With every degree you save approximately 5% on your bill.
Step6
You can also trick your mind into thinking that it's cooler with a little paint, even if it's only one wall. Use blue or green as they are classified as "cool" colors. For some reason when the brain sees cool colors it reacts subconsciously into thinking of cold water, the ocean or..?
Step7
This was harder for me to do...try cutting out heavy foods like casseroles. It takes less energy (which is heat) to digest a large salad or soup. And there's a two-fold benefit; you'll actually look and feel better.
Comments
savemoneycenter said
on 7/11/2008 I can relate to this, I used to sive in an apartment that had no cross breeze. Great tips!