How to keep cool without air conditioners

There are several ways to cool your home without the use of air conditioners. Window shades inside your home will provide insulation for not only the cold of winter, but also the heat of summer. The closer the draperies hang to the wall, the more insulation they provide. Also, remember that a tightly woven, opaque fabric will allow less heat than a loosely woven, transparent one.

Proper ventilation is also important. The Department of Energy recommends that you open windows in the cool of the morning and evening, and shut windows and shades in the heat of the afternoon.

In addition to shading and ventilating, you may also try to limit your use of indoor heat sources, such as appliances. Try not to use a conventional oven, dishwasher, clothes dryer, or stove if at all possible. If they must be used, close the doors to the rooms in which they are being operated.

Finally, window and room fans will also help keep you cool and increase ventilation. Ceiling fans can make you feel up to four degrees cooler.

Above information courtesy of Home Comforts, The Art and Science of Keeping House