Collectively, American homeowners spend around $29 billion per year on air conditioning.
Considering many people don’t use their air conditioners year-round, this is a shocking statistic that shows how expensive air conditioning is. Fortunately, you don’t have to endure the sweltering heat to save money on cooling your home. There are many AC alternatives you can use that are affordable and effective at keeping you comfortable.
If you are a renter or homeowner looking to stay cool this summer without paying an expensive electricity bill, here are several air conditioning alternatives you can try.
1. Oversized Ceiling Fan
Installing oversized ceiling fans is a great way to cool your home. Ceiling fan airflow causes a cooling effect in your home that can make you forget about your expensive AC.
To make the most of your ceiling fan, the air should be blowing down, which is usually accomplished by running the fan in a counterclockwise direction.
2. Floor Fans
As an alternate air conditioner, place an oscillating floor fan near an open window or door. The fan will pull in cooler air and circulate it throughout the space.
Supercharge your efforts by using two fans to create a cooling cross breeze in your space.
3. Evaporative Cooler
If you live in an area with low humidity, an evaporative cooler is one of the better alternatives to air conditioning. Evaporative coolers push moisture into the air, which evaporates the hot air. This process results in cooler air without using much energy.
4. Window Film
One of the best alternative air conditioning solutions is to apply a cooling film to your windows. Window film reduces the amount of heat that enters your home, resulting in a cooler space overall. While window film is effective for cooling your home, it also reduces UV rays, protects your windows from damage, and reduces glare.
5. Thermal Curtains
Thermal curtains are ideal for keeping your home cool in the summer. These curtains keep your space cool by blocking heat from entering your home. While you can purchase thermal curtains, you can also try your hand at DIY and make them yourself.
6. Cooling Plants
Did you know some plants can help you cool your home? Plants like aloe vera, fern, and a ficus tree cool the air by acting as a natural humidifier. As a bonus, these plants are also ideal for improving your indoor air quality.
7. Misting Fan
Misting fans work similarly to evaporative coolers. They blow a fine mist of water into the air, which evaporates and cools the room. Misting fans also reduce odors, dust, and repel flying insects.
Try These AC Alternatives to Keep Cool During the Summer
There are many AC alternatives you can use to keep cool and save money at the same time.
Fans are a great alternative to cool your home without causing your electric bill to spike. You can block the heat with a variety of window treatments and even place several cooling plants around your home.
Whatever method you use, affordably cooling your home is more than just a possibility.
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