If you are new to Texas, you need to make sure your home is ready to embrace the upcoming summer heat so that it keeps your living space remaining cool and comfortable.
Here are 10 tips to help you get ready for one of our East Texas summers:
- Service Your Air Conditioning System: Before the peak heat hits, get your air conditioning system serviced by a professional. This should include cleaning, checking filters, inspecting for leaks, and ensuring that the system is running efficiently. Regular maintenance can help to prevent breakdowns during critical times.
- Seal Windows and Doors: Check for and seal any leaks or gaps in windows and doors to prevent hot air from entering and cool air from escaping. This can be done using weather-stripping or caulk. Sealing those cracks will make your air conditioning more effective.
- Install Screens or Window Films: Solar screens or reflective window films may be useful on older or single pane windows. They can block a significant amount of ultraviolet rays and heat, helping to keep your home cooler.
- Use Programmable Thermostats: Invest in a programmable thermostat if you can. Setting it to adjust automatically at different times of the day can help manage cooling costs and maintain a comfortable indoor environment.
- Optimize Ceiling Fans: Ensure your ceiling fans are set to rotate correctly to push the cool air down. Fans can make rooms feel cooler and allow you to adjust your thermostat setting to a higher temperature.
- Consider Light-Colored Paint: If you're planning any exterior painting, choose light colors, especially for your roof and walls. Light colors reflect rather than absorb heat, keeping your home cooler.
- Energy-Efficient Appliances: If it's time to replace old appliances, consider choosing energy-efficient models that use less electricity and generate less heat.
- Landscaping: If landscaping is in your future plans, consider planting trees and shrubs to shade your home, particularly on the west and south sides where the sun is most intense.
- Attic Insulation: Appropriate amounts of attic insulation slow the rate that heat enters your home. This is especially important in Texas, where attic temperatures can soar. A professional roofer can advise you if an older home may need additional turbines or attic vents added to get some of that attic space heat out.
- Important Self Care: The most important things to keep in mind when the temperatures peak in Texas is to stay hydrated, seek shade when possible, and use sunscreen or clothing that gives protection from the sun. If you don’t take care of you, you won’t be able to take care of your family and your home.
By implementing some of these tips, maybe that will help you and your home beat the heat and be ready to welcome the Texas summer season.
Hi there! My name is Melissa Summers and I am the Broker & Owner of Country Roots Realty and I love helping buyers or sellers with all of their real estate needs.
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