The weekend weather forecast for Calgary is amazing! We love our summers here in YYC but for those with no AC our homes can get very hot. Here are some tips to keep your Calgary home cool during the upcoming heat wave. Remember- it won’t last long so try to enjoy it!
Close All Windows and Blinds
We love the sunshine in Calgary, but remember that around 30% of all unwanted heat comes from your windows. Closing these off during the day can result in significant temperature reductions inside of your home.
Ditch the Incandescent Bulbs
These bulbs waste about 90% of the energy they emit in producing heat. If you needed additional motivation to make the switch to LED lights this is it. Your home will be cooler and your electricity bill lower. Replacing Your Light Bulbs
Buy Fans And More Fans
Without AC this is your best bet for moving and cooling the air inside your home. Consider installing a ceiling fan in rooms that require more cooling- they have come a long way in terms of style.
Let The Night Air Do The Cooling
Calgary nights normally bring much cooler temperatures. Take advantage of this by opening up windows and strategically placing fans in a room to facilitate that cross breeze moving through your home.
Turn On Your Ventilation Fans
These fans remove the hot air that has risen in your home. Make sure you turn them on when showering or cooking.
Use The Grill
This goes without saying but turning on any heat generating appliances like your oven, will cause the temperature in your home to rise. Use your grill and enjoy that outdoor furniture you have. These warm summer evenings are short lived here in Calgary so enjoy every minute of them outside. Grill Maintenance and Upkeep
Use Your Basement
If all else fails and you cannot get a good sleep in the heat, camp out in your basement for a few nights!
Long Term Measures
If you’re really committed to the whole no-AC thing, you can make a couple changes to your home that will keep it cooler for future summers. Insulated window films, for example, are a smart purchase as they work similarly to blinds. Planting trees or vines on or in front of light-facing windows will also shield your home from the sun’s rays and reduce the amount of heat your home absorbs.
