Just when you thought maybe we’d get away with cooler temperatures this summer, Texas came through with those fiery 100-degree temps we have all come to know and dread each year.
Before you lose your cool (literally!), stock up on some ice cream and read these seven tips on ways you can easily beat the heat all summer long!
1. Fans, fans, fans.
First of all, make sure your ceiling fan is running counterclockwise. Otherwise, all the cold air will be cooling the ceiling, and the warm air will be invading your personal space down on the ground. You can also use portable fans as a cheap way to cool your home without spiking up your air-conditioner.
2. Sleep with the windows open at night.
This money-saving technique has been around since before the days of air-conditioning. Take a page from your great-great grandpa’s survival book and let the fresh, cool air from outside flow through your home at night.
3. Spice up your lunch!
Eat something hot, seriously. Eating something spicy or eating a hot cup of soup in the blazing heat may be the last thing you want to do, but studies have shown that indulging in a spicy snack will kick your sweat into gear. The more you sweat, the more it evaporates, causing your body to cool off naturally. But, here’s the kicker – this is only a trick for dry, non-humid days. If it’s a humid day, skip to tip #4.
4. Stay hydrated!
Keeping your body full of cool water is a surefire way to help it defeat the heat. The more you sweat, the more water your body loses. On scorching days, be sure you’re keeping up with your hydration to avoid heat-related illnesses, even if you’re not feeling thirsty. On super sweaty days, throw in some sports drinks with low sugar and high levels of electrolytes to help your body refuel faster.
5. Dress cool.
In Texas, we know that cool is the new black. So make sure you dress in loose-fitting light-colored cotton clothing that’s breathable and will allow your body to move freely. Stay away from dark and tight-fitting clothing.
6. Spritz & splash!
It’s no secret that a good place to hide from the heat is in a swimming pool, but if you don’t have access to one, a spray bottle filled with cool or even room-temperature water can be your new best friend. Spraying your neck and wrists with water is a surprisingly fast way to cool down.
7. Use common sense.
The most important tip we can give you is to use common sense. Plan your activities based on the temperature and time of day. Choose to exercise in the morning or evening when it’s cooler and avoid being out in the heat of the day. If it’s a real Texas scorcher outside, plan indoor activities with plenty of air conditioning like a trip to the movie theater or exploring a local museum.
The best way to beat the heat is to be smart, but if an issue should arise with your air conditioning system, give us a call at Bacon, and we’ll be happy to help you out!
