It's Getting Hot in Here 🔥

Is it just us, or is it feeling a little warm?

We know it isn't just us. By the end of this week, something like 175 million people in the US will be under some kind of heat advisory, or stronger. Although it got here a little early, July does tend to be the warmest month for WNY, so it is time we get used to it.

But while you're getting used to it, are you dreading your AC bill? Are you drinking so much water that your bathroom is sick of seeing you? Then keep reading, because we have some suggestions on how to make it better.

1. Follow the sun: Be like our dachshund, and follow the sun all day. Actually, scratch that. Your job is to know where the sun is so you can know how to work around it. If you have a lot of south-facing windows, you will probably want to close the blinds or curtains around noon until about 3pm. The time is likely dependent on if you're facing true South, but assume the peak of the day. As it continues to set, close those blinds and curtains. Essentially, don't get the sun a chance to get in and heat your house.

   
   

2. Give your AC a fighting chance: This one is pretty simple. Keep your AC clean. If it is a window unit, it may need some actual cleaning, but either way, if your system has a filter, make sure to keep it clean. If it's just you in the house, and you're only home at night, then maybe you don't need to replace it as frequently as someone with 4 dogs and 3 cats and 2 kids with a parent who are all home for the whole summer.

   
   

3. Work with your AC: Do you have central air, or a window unit? If it is a window unit that you keep in your sleeping space, keep your door shut to keep the cool air in. You may also not need to turn it on until 30-60 minutes before bed if you're trying to save money. On the flip side, if you have central air, you are going to want to keep most of your inside doors open to give the air the best chance to circulate.

   
   

4. Windows: Are you always cold in the winter? You feel that breeze coming straight into the house? Well, unfortunately, you will probably feel the heat, too. Windows are no small renovation, and will likely need some planning to get your budget ready for that, but do yourself a favor and take note of whether or not your need to save your pennies.

These are just a couple of quick ways to keep your house a touch cooler this time of year. Of course, we hope you're staying safe, too. Wear light colors, drink plenty of water, seek out shade, and if you can help it, only go outside first thing in the morning or later in the evening. Avoid those peak hours. And always check on your people. Friends, family, and neighbors - make sure they're ok and have somewhere cool to stay.

That's it for now. Try to enjoy this heat because before we know it, we'll be scraping snow off our cars.