4 hacks to keep your apartment cool this summer

Summer has finally graced B.C. with its presence, but with the sunshine we wait all year for comes sweltering temperatures. Of course, every British Columbian knows that "it's not the heat that gets you, it's the humidity." Either way, buildings in our province are seriously lacking A.C., so it's time to get crafty to beat the heat. Here are five ways you can keep your apartment cool this summer.

1. Block the heat before it gets in

Sunlight pouring through windows might undo your seasonal depression but it’s also a major source of indoor heat. Use blackout curtains, thermal blinds, or even aluminum foil in a pinch to reflect the sun’s rays and keep your space shaded during peak hours. South and west-facing windows tend to be the worst offenders, so prioritize covering those.

2. Switch up your fan strategy

Ceiling fans should spin counterclockwise in the summer to push cool air down. If you’re using a box or standing fan, place it across from a window at night to pull in cooler air. You can also try the classic DIY air conditioner trick: place a bowl of ice or a frozen water bottle in front of a fan to chill the air as it circulates.

3. Rethink Your lighting

Incandescent bulbs give off more heat than you might realize. Swap them out for energy-efficient LED lights to lower your room’s temperature (and your energy bill). During the day, rely on natural light where possible, and turn off lights in rooms you're not using.

4. Limit heat-generating activities

Cooking with your oven or running your dryer can turn up the heat fast. Instead, opt for stovetop or no-cook meals, do laundry at night, and avoid running major appliances during the hottest parts of the day. If possible, air-dry your clothes and take advantage of cooler evening hours to cook or clean.

Enjoy the summer sun while you can, Raincouver will be back before you know it!