Australians are feeling the heat this summer, with temperatures soaring around the continent. But keeping cool doesn’t have to cost the earth! Here are some green tips to help you keep your cool this summer:
Keep your body cool
Reduce outdoor activity
A heatwave is probably not the best time to start your new outdoor rigorous workout routine! If you do exercise outdoors however, do it early in the morning and follow it up with a cool shower.
Keep hydrated
Drink water regularly and avoid alcohol which can increase dehydration.
Keep comfortable
This includes wearing loose, light-coloured clothing, staying indoors as much as possible, and eating cold foods and meals. Splashing your face and body with cold water is also helpful.
Protect your body
This includes wearing sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses and all-covering clothing. You should also stay hydrated by drinking water.
If you scheduled a task that involves lengthy time out in the open, try rescheduling it for a cooler day. As much as possible you should reduce your exposure to direct sunlight.
Keep your environment cool in heat waves
Keep the heat out
Closing the curtains early in the day can keep radiant heat out. Opening the windows overnight when the air is cooler creates cooling cross-breezes.
Check that your home or workplace has adequate insulation. Modern insulation does a great job of protecting buildings from heat.
Use fans the right way!
Did you know you can adjust your fan depending on the season? For summer, set your ceiling fan settings so the blades run counter-clockwise, pulling hot air up and out instead of just twirling it around the room.
While fans do not cool the air, they can cool people through evaporation and are relatively cheap and green to run.
Stay safe in the sun
Stay in the shade during heatwaves. If you do need to work or be outdoors, make sure to stick to shaded areas where possible.
Take advantage of solar energy
If you have rooftop solar, running your air-conditioner with solar power saves you money and saves the earth.
Because the hottest part of the day is also when the sun is brightest, running your air-conditioner allows you to make the most of solar-generated energy. Using your own power also reduces pressure on the electricity grid, lowering the risk of blackouts in your area.
In addition, if you have solar battery installation, you may also be able to use any excess stored solar power to run your air-conditioner in the evening.
For more information about installing solar panels and batteries, contact MPE Group today!