Living in an older home has its charms, from unique architectural features to those quirky little corners that newer homes in Granite City, IL just don’t offer. But these charms can sometimes come with challenges, particularly when it comes to keeping cool during the hotter months. Fortunately, there are several effective and cost-efficient ways to help cool down your older home’s air without the need for major renovations or expensive air conditioning systems.
Use Windows to Your Advantage
One of the simplest yet effective ways to cool your home is by optimizing your window treatments. Light-colored blinds, shades, or curtains can reflect heat away from your interiors. Consider using blackout curtains or reflective blinds that can significantly reduce the amount of heat that enters through windows. Keeping these closed during the hottest part of the day will help keep the interior of your home cooler.
Enhance Natural Ventilation
Older homes often benefit from natural breezes and ventilation due to their design and structural placements, like transom windows and taller ceilings. Enhance this natural ventilation by opening windows on opposite sides of your home to create a cross-breeze, which can help move the warm air out and cool air in. Placing fans strategically near these windows can also help in enhancing the air flow, making the living areas much more comfortable.
Upgrade Your Fans
Ceiling fans can be a godsend in older homes. If your home already has ceiling fans, ensure they are running counterclockwise during the summer, as this pushes cool air down. If you don’t have ceiling fans, consider installing them in key areas such as bedrooms and living rooms. Portable fans are also a good option and can be moved around as needed to different parts of the house.
Explore Air Conditioning Options
For those hotter days when natural methods just don’t cut it, air conditioning can be a lifesaver. In older homes, traditional central air systems may not be feasible due to the lack of necessary ductwork or the potential for structural challenges. However, there are several alternatives that can be effective. Portable or window air conditioners can be a good solution for cooling specific areas without the need for extensive installation. Another increasingly popular option is ductless mini-split systems, which provide efficient cooling and can be installed with minimal disruption to the existing structure. These units consist of an outdoor compressor and one or more indoor air handling units, which are connected by a small conduit. Mini splits are efficient, relatively unobtrusive, and can be used to cool individual rooms or zones within your Granite City, IL home, making them an ideal choice for the selective cooling needs of older homes.
Looking for a company near Granite City, IL who can help adjust your air conditioning to keep your old home cool? Call Dixon Heating & Cooling today.