Here in Arkansas, we’re no strangers to summer heat and humidity. Our summers are notorious for their scorching temperatures and stifling humidity, even reaching 100° 32 times over the last two summers! Sadly, as the mercury rises, so do our energy bills, leaving many of us searching for ways to stay cool without breaking the bank.
At G&S Insulating, each member of our team has been in your shoes. That’s why we put together this blog post to offer practical, cost-effective solutions to help you maintain a comfortable home environment while keeping your energy consumption in check. From optimizing insulation to smart appliance usage, these tips will help you navigate the Arkansas heat and save on cooling costs. And when you need professional assistance with insulation installation, don’t hesitate to reach out to our dedicated team.
Optimize Your Insulation: The Best Option Against Arkansas Heat
Let’s start with the option that packs the biggest punch: insulation. Proper insulation is your first line of defense against the relentless Arkansas summer. It acts as a barrier, preventing heat transfer between your home’s interior and the sweltering outdoors. Insulating your attic, walls, and crawl space are the best ways to keep hot air from seeping into your living areas. We want to keep the cold air in and the hot air out!
Several types of insulation are ideal for our Arkansas climate, such as blown-in cellulose, spray foam, or fiberglass insulation. These materials provide excellent thermal resistance and can significantly reduce the workload on your air conditioner, improving your home’s overall energy efficiency.
And for the ultimate duo to keep cold air in and hot air out this summer, consider combining your insulation with air sealing. You’ll then have both a thermal barrier and an airtight home for even greater energy efficiency AND improved indoor air quality.(Consider spray foam insulation to achieve both insulating and air sealing in one easy step.) And you can save an average of 15% on your heating and cooling costs!
Maximize Airflow: Strategic Ventilation for Arkansas Homes
Effective ventilation is crucial for removing hot, humid air and circulating cooler air throughout your home. Make the most of your ceiling fans by ensuring they rotate counterclockwise in summer, creating a wind-chill effect that can make you feel cooler. Consider installing an attic fan or whole-house fan to expel hot air and draw in cooler air during the evenings. Create cross-ventilation by strategically opening your windows during cooler hours, typically early morning or late evening, to let cool air flow through your home naturally.
Harness Natural Shade: Keeping the Arkansas Sun at Bay
Aah, the power of shade! Shade is a mighty tool in reducing heat gain in your home. You’ll want to plant deciduous trees, such as an oak or dogwood, on the south and west sides of your house to provide natural shade during summer while allowing sunlight to warm your home in winter. Installing awnings, shutters, or reflective window films to block the sun’s intense rays is also a good idea. Inside, using light-colored curtains or blinds will help reflect sunlight and prevent it from heating your living spaces.
Smart Appliance Usage: Energy Efficiency in the Arkansas Summer
We often forget that many of our household appliances generate heat, contributing to higher indoor temperatures. That’s why it’s important to be strategic in your appliance use to minimize this effect. Here are a few ideas:
- Run your heat-generating appliances, like dishwashers and laundry machines, during cooler hours, such as early morning or late evening.
- Choose to use your microwave oven, crockpot, or air fryer over your conventional oven, when possible. (They generate less heat and it is a great excuse to not have to cook!)
- Air-dry your dishes instead of using the dishwasher’s drying cycle and unplug electronics when not in use since they can still generate heat even in standby mode.
Thermostat Management: Finding the Sweet Spot for Arkansas Comfort
A programmable thermostat, such as a smart thermostat, can be a game-changer in managing your home’s temperature efficiently. Set it a few degrees higher than usual during the day when the house is empty, allowing your cooling system to work less. Program it to start cooling your home shortly before you return, ensuring comfort without wasting energy. Remember, as we mentioned earlier, you can feel comfortable at slightly higher temperatures by using ceiling fans to create a wind-chill effect. This strategy allows you to set your thermostat a bit higher without sacrificing comfort.
Maximize Your Home’s Energy Efficiency
By implementing these strategies, you can keep your home cool this summer without relying solely on your air conditioner. Proper insulation, smart ventilation, natural shading, efficient appliance use, and thoughtful thermostat management all work together to create a comprehensive cooling system for your Arkansas home. These methods not only help maintain a comfortable indoor environment but also contribute to improved energy efficiency and lower cooling costs.
Remember, while these DIY solutions can positively impact your home’s comfort and energy consumption, professional insulation installation can take your home’s efficiency to the next level. Our expert team at G&S Insulating is here to help! Contact us today to maximize your home’s defense against the Arkansas heat with proper insulation and air sealing and optimize your cooling systems for the long, hot summer ahead.