The Philippines is known for its hot and humid summers. The warmest months have a mean temperature of around 28.3 degrees celsius. It even reached 38.6 degrees in May 2021, according to the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical, and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA).
Heat and humidity create a sticky feeling on the skin that’s just uncomfortable. Plus, exposure to high temperatures can lead to various health effects like heat exhaustion and heatstroke. It can also worsen chronic problems like heart disease, lung conditions, and diabetes.
Fortunately, the discomforts and health issues that come with excessive heat exposure. Here are different ways to keep your Hamilton Executive Residences home cool during the summer months.
According to the United States Department of Energy, about 76% of the sunlight that goes through standard, double-pane windows becomes heat. The ultraviolet (UV) rays from the sun can also cause your furniture and appliance exteriors to fade.
You can avoid these issues by using window coverings during the day, like blinds, curtains, drapes, and shutters. If you still want to let natural light in, open the window coverings that are away from direct sunlight. You can also install tinted films on your windows. These reduce the amount of heat that gets in through your windows. Window films also help minimize glare and UV damage to your furniture and appliances.
Small openings around your doors and windows can let heat in and cold air out. Rubber sealants or caulk should keep those tiny gaps closed. However, these materials can wear out over time. Have an expert inspect your doors and windows for possible sealant deterioration. Get the damaged ones replaced as soon as possible.
Consider growing a garden if you want to keep both your outdoor and indoor spaces at comfortable temperatures. According to the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) Earth Observatory, plants release cold mists of water through their leaves. This process is called “transpiration cooling,” and it lets plants cool themselves and their surrounding area. Large trees also provide much-needed shade during the warmer months.
Your air conditioner is often your last resort when it comes to cooling your house, as it takes up a lot of energy every time you use it. ACs, just like any other appliance, need regular cleaning and maintenance to keep them running smoothly. Clogged air filters and failing electrical parts can cause your cooling system to work harder just to keep your room at the right temperature.
Cleaning or replacing your filters is relatively easy, as you can often remove them without tools. If you have a washable filter, use a hose to clean off the dirt and grime and let it dry before putting it back into the machine. If you have non-washable ones, buy new filters according to the AC manufacturer’s specifications. This ensures that your new filter will fit appropriately into your air conditioner. It also helps to have an HVAC professional inspect your machine every year. This way, you can find and fix possible problems before they worsen. You don’t want your AC failing on you on a hot afternoon!
There’s no getting around the summer heat, even if you are indoors. So, you need to do all you can to make sure you and your family stay healthy during these warm months. Use the simple methods above to keep your home cool and comfortable.
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