Even when it’s not summer, the DFW area can experience high temperatures. As a cost-saving measure, many Metroplex homeowners try to avoid using their air conditioners and instead opt for more natural and eco-conscious ways to stay cool. Forgoing air conditioning will not only reduce your utility bills, it will also reduce your carbon footprint on the environment. If you’re looking for tips on how to keep a room cool without air conditioning, consider the following.

Know When to Open The Windows and When to Draw the Shades

Opening windows is a great way to cool your house with fresh air and a natural breeze. However, North Texas experiences about 230 sunny days per year. Leaving a window open during periods of abundant sunshine will quickly raise temperatures in your home — so it’s best to know when to keep your windows closed with the shades drawn to maximize comfort. To make the most of cooler temperatures and the breeze, consider opening windows during the evening and closing them at sunrise. That way, you’re letting fresh air into your home at the coolest time of the day. Likewise, make sure to close your windows and draw your blinds as soon as you wake up. When you do leave your windows open, you may want to crack or open windows in opposite ends of the house (or the room) to maximize the cooling power of a breeze by encouraging a cross-draft.

Use Fans to Your Advantage

By circulating air, ceiling fans and portable fans can make a room feel cooler. According to the US Department of Energy, ceiling fans are one of the most effective ways of promoting comfort during hot days because they create a wind chill effect. Portable fans are useful, too. Consider oscillating fans to help create a breeze-like draft in your room while box fans are great for placing in windows. Real Simple recommends pointing fans toward a window to push out hot air to increase a box or oscillating fan’s effectiveness.

Avoid Using Appliances that Give Off Heat

Your oven, dishwasher, and even your computer put off heat when in use. To help reduce the effect appliances have on your comfort level, try to avoid using them during the heat of the day. For instance, instead of baking a casserole for dinner, opt for no-cook items like salads and sandwiches. Instead of using a dishwasher to clean and dry your dishes and utensils, hand-wash them and allow dishes to air dry.

Using nature to your advantage can certainly increase your comfort level on hot days. Now that you know how to keep a room cool without turning on the air conditioner, temember to take advantage of cooler temperatures during night and morning hours, and use fans to maximize that effect.

Image Source: Flickr

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