Go Green! - Stay Cool Summer Tips!

Looks like summer finally decided to show its face out here in the San Fernando Valley. Last week was pretty rough with numbers up in the 100's, Living in the Valley is really no joke.  Here are a few ideas on how to stay cool this week while the sun is blazing.

1. Go to your favorite ice cream parlor or yogurt station. Everyone knows that eating ice cream takes your mind of the heat, at least momentarily.

2. Go to the pool! During the summer the pool is open. Hurry before its too late, public pools usually close by Labor Day weekend. (first Monday of September)

3. Hang out in places where there is AC i.e.; the library, mall, markets, and bookstores.

4. Go to the park.  Go to a local park where there is lots of shade take a cool blanket and some cold water. The key thing to do during hot weather is to stay hydrated.

5. Make it a beach day! Granted it’s going to be sunny at the beach but with the cool water and all the activity that happens at the beach you won’t mind it. Don’t forget the sun block!

6. Go to the Movies. Most theaters have a special price before 6pm. Watch a good flick and stay out of the heat for a few hours.

7.Take a nap, sometimes it’s better to just sleep away the heat and start your day later when it starts to cool down.

8. Repaint your walls a lighter shade.   Light colored paint does not absorb as much solar energy and your home will stay much cooler. If you don't believe me, use a spot thermometer and shoot it at a dark colored part of the same wall vs. a part painted bright white. The difference in temperature will amaze you.  Refer to FIXiTDUDES for more info and help.

9. If you are building a new home splurge on insulation, radiant barrier attic insulation, solar attic fans, low E windows, planting trees, a whole house fan and a high efficiency air conditioner with a SEER rating over 15 for when you absolutely need it.

10. There are alternative construction methods such as Insulated Concrete Form or ICF, cement coated straw bale construction, adobe and others that will make your home much more energy efficient. Thermal mass walls help regulate the inside temperature of the home. With such a home you may find ceiling fans enough to keep it cool, even in summer.

Have a great week everyone and try to stay cool!