The Best Way to Cool Older Homes

Keep the Sun Out of Your Home

Direct sunlight through your windows can greatly increase the temperature of your home. Taking steps to block it is critical. Awnings can be a great way to block the direct sun while still letting in enough light to see. Planting trees outside of large windows can provide pleasant shade throughout the summer months. Shutters and blinds on your windows are also highly effective at blocking the sun’s rays. You can adjust them to let in the right amount of light for your room.

Keep Air Circulating

Installing a variety of fans throughout a house can keep warm and cool air mixing and prevent hot spots. Attic and ceiling fans are great options for house-wide circulation. Individual fans in the rooms where you spend the most time can add extra cooling as needed.

Don’t Add Unnecessary Heat

Cooking hot meals inside can add a lot of heat to your kitchen and the surrounding rooms. Summers are a good time to eat meals that require minimal cooking. Try to avoid baking whenever possible so that heat doesn’t escape from your oven. Barbecues are a great option for cooking hot meals without using your indoor kitchen.

Alternative Cooling Systems

Sometimes, ductwork can be added to an older home that lacks it. When this is not possible, there are still ways to install AC equipment. A ductless mini-split system can be added with only small holes drilled. You might wish to consider this type of system.