We’ve had a wonderful stretch of warm weather in Bellingham and around Whatcom County. Well, warm but local standards at least.  Many  find it hard to justify the cost of air conditioning in this climate, but when it gets warm many are left second guessing their decision.  Below are some tips courtesy of Pillar to Post Inspections on how to cool your home without air conditioning.

Let the Cool Air In -When the day cools off, open doors and windows to allow the cool air to circulate through the rooms of your home. Turn on fans to create a cross-breeze, circulating the cool night air. Keep the kitchen cabinets open all night because they can store heat in your home.

Keep Out the Heat – As the temperature climbs during the morning, close doors, and shut your blinds and curtains to block out the sun. This way you keep the cooler air in and prevent hot air from entering. Close doors quickly when entering or exiting your home.

Insulate - One of the most effective ways to keep a home cool is to install adequate insulation. Insulation keeps the home cool in summer.

Seal Drafts – Seal holes, cracks and openings in your home to stop the flow of hot air seeping in through the walls and ceiling. Weather stripping and weatherizing your home greatly reduces the amount of cool air that escapes.

Turn off heat sources- Avoid using the stove and oven as much as possible. Instead, use the microwave to quickly heat food without raising the temperature of the kitchen, and set your dishwasher to use its non-heated drying cycle. Incandescent light bulbs also create heat – switch to compact fluorescents instead. Turn off lamps, electronics, and computers when not in use.  Thanks Pillar to Post for the great tips!

For more information on Bellingham Real Estate or to search for homes in the Bellingham and Whatcom County area visit www.JohnsonTeamRealEstate.com, your one stop Bellingham real estate and community information resource!