Hot home? Sick of living in what feels like a sauna? It’s not exactly fun when your home is hotter than you can bear, but it’s even worse when you don’t know what to do about it. That’s why, below, we are going to try and answer the question “Why is my home so hot?” once and for all.
1. HVAC Playing Hooky
Your HVAC system is supposed to be your best friend when it comes to controlling indoor climate, but what if it’s on strike? If you’ve noticed your home’s temperature creeping up despite your thermostat’s promises, it might be time to get in touch with your local HVAC services for a repair. A unit that’s not cooling is about as useful as a chocolate teapot. Regular maintenance checks can keep your system humming happily, and sometimes, a simple fix like replacing a dirty filter or repairing a faulty compressor can bring back that cool indoor breeze.
2. Insulation: The Sneaky Culprit
Think of insulation like a fluffy blanket for your house. If it’s lacking or improperly installed, your home might just be throwing a heat party and inviting all that hot air from outside. Checking your attic, walls, and even floors for adequate insulation can reveal hidden weaknesses in your home’s armor against heat.
3. Windows: The Sun’s Accomplices
Your windows might be letting in more than just light—think unwanted heat waves. If your curtains are throwing shade but it’s still too bright inside, consider investing in blackout curtains or reflective window films. These can block out a significant amount of heat, making your living space more like a cool cave and less like a greenhouse.
4. Appliance Overload
Every appliance you run generates heat. Yes, even that antique lamp you love so much. On hot days, try to minimize use of ovens, stovetops, and even computers in your home. Opt for grilling outdoors, or embrace the raw food movement (hello, salad night!). It’s all about keeping those indoor temps down.
5. Poor Ventilation
Sometimes your home just needs to breathe. Poor ventilation can trap hot air inside and make your living space feel stuffier than a packed elevator. Ensure your vents are open and unblocked by furniture or dust bunnies. Consider adding attic or window fans to help push the hot air out and let cooler air in.
6. Fan Faux Pas
Speaking of fans, are yours spinning the right way? Ceiling fans should rotate counterclockwise in the summer to push cool air down. If yours are just spinning your energy bill without cooling you off, it might be time to switch their direction.
7. Landscaping Lapses
The right landscaping can actually help regulate your home’s temperature. Planting shade trees strategically around your home can block high-intensity sunlight from turning your home into an oven. Plus, they make your yard look pretty snazzy.
You really don’t have to resign yourself to living in a house that is more like a sweat lodge, not if you fix any of the above issues you may have, anyway!
Meg is an author at Cinnamon Hollow. She writes on a variety of topics sharing tips and ideas for daily life.
