7 Ways to Save Money and Stay Cool This Summer
Looking for ways to stay cool this summer, but still keep your pocket book from turning into an “I owe you?” It’s not easy to beat the heat these days, especially when the temperature decides to crank itself into triple digits. Check out these ways to save money and keep the sweat (and dollars) to a minimum, while maxing out your rest and relaxation.
1. Fans can be your salvation
If you’re looking for ways to beat the heat, a fan can be a great investment for your home. This one appliance can make a room feel 6 or 7 degrees cooler. Good fans make it possible for you to lower your thermostat setting and save money on air-conditioning costs. Try checking your local second hand store for a fan before heading to the hardware store.
2. Hug a tree
Three trees situated strategically on the south and west sides of your house can save money on your utility bill by $100 to $250 a year. Tree-shaded yards and neighborhoods have daytime air temperatures that are several degrees cooler than comparable areas without trees. If you’re looking for ways to save money on gardening tools to give your trees a little TLC, try looking for gently used tools at a local second hand store.
3. Alter your diet
What you eat and drink can help keep you cool as well. Stock your freezer with flavored ice treats. Freeze a bag of chopped fruit such as watermelon, pineapple or lemons. Cooling down can be a tasty experience too! You can also head to the Arc Coffee Connection in Oroville for freshly brewed iced tea, or a mouth watering mango raspberry smoothie. Check out our Facebook page before heading out and you might hit the $1 off day and be able to take the entire family!
4. Shop Summer Clothing at Second Hand Stores
You can also save money by buying your summer clothing such as bikini’s, board shorts, sandals, or even beach chairs, umbrellas, and towels at second hand stores. You may find that Kim Kardashian hat for 1/3 of the price. WOW! That would be the highlight of your summer shopping this year.
5. Block out sun with window shades
About 30 percent of heat comes through your windows, but by installing tinted or low-E window films you can save 7 percent on cooling costs. These window films are not only easy to install but also inexpensive, making this a perfect and simple solution to saving money on your energy costs.
6. Leave your windows open
Leaving your windows open throughout the night can vastly decrease the temperature in your house, as well as increase air flow. Plus you get a nice cycle of fresh air. You can leave them open until about an hour or two after the sun rises. Once the sun sets reopen them again. The air will only get cooler and help you out with keeping those bills low.
7. Find cool ways to escape
No matter what, you can always dream up ways to escape the heat this summer on your own or with your whole family. Try these ideas for ways to save money and stay cool:
- Reduced price matinee
- Low cost programs or classes
- Inexpensive art and craft shows or festivals
- Go to a local swimming pool/river/lake and have a picnic and swim
- Check out the deals at the Arc Stores
