With hybrid and remote work becoming the norm, isn’t it wonderful how many of us are relishing the perks of working from our own cozy spaces at home? But let’s address the flipside – when summer arrives and turns our homes into literal hotspots! Suddenly, we find ourselves fleeing to nearby coffee shops and malls just to escape the heat, leading to increased expenses and not-so-healthy food and lifestyle choices.
If you’re determined to stay fresh at home while minding your business, don’t fret! Here are a few tips that won’t make you break a sweat.
Clear the air of humidity
In the Philippines, dealing with humidity is a constant battle. If a regular electric fan isn’t cutting it for you, consider getting air cooler fans that are fed with water or ice, offering a crisp solution. Having a dehumidifier on hand is also a game-changer, as it can effectively remove excess moisture, making indoor spaces cooler and more comfortable.
Cross-Ventilate
Maximize natural ventilation by strategically opening windows and doors to create cross breezes. This not only facilitates the circulation of fresh air throughout your home but also aids in maintaining consistent indoor temperatures. A handy tip I’ve discovered during my years of condo living is employing a powerful air circulator such as a Vornado aimed outward through an open window or balcony door to effectively flush out trapped hot air.
Dress your windows
Install cool blinds, shades, or curtains to block direct sunlight during the hottest parts of the day. Light-colored, reflective blinds can reduce solar heat gain while still allowing soft, diffused light. If your workspace is directly hit by sunlight, consider having your windows tinted which can trap harmful UV rays as well.
Take it from your top fan
Ceiling fans are great for circulating air and generating a refreshing breeze. For maximum cooling during summer, set them to rotate counterclockwise. The downward draft can produce a wind chill effect, keeping you cooler by evaporating moisture from your skin. Conversely, clockwise rotation is better suited for circulating warm air during colder months.
Green up your space
Add plants and shrubs strategically around your home to provide natural shade and reduce the amount of direct sunlight that enters your living spaces. Opt for plants with big leaves that can shield areas of your house directly hit by the sun. For smaller spaces like condos, consider indoor cooling plants that can freshen up the atmosphere like ficus, snake plants, or peace lilies.
Floor it with cooler materials
Tile, stone, or concrete naturally stay cooler than materials like carpet or hardwood. If your home doesn’t have these kinds of floorings, consider using rugs made from natural fibers like jute or cotton that can provide softness without trapping heat. Bamboo and vinyl flooring with click-lock designs are also good options that can be placed on top of your existing flooring for minimized installation mess.
Keep the heat out of the kitchen
Limit the use of heat-generating appliances like ovens, stoves, and washer-dryers during the hottest parts of the day. Consider using a microwave oven, or batch cooking your meals in the early morning or evening when the temperature is cooler, saving you more time for work too!
Exhaust your efforts
Ensure bathroom and kitchen exhausts are meticulously cleaned to effectively expel heat. While vacuuming is effective, you should periodically remove the covers to inspect for blockages such as built-up dust which can hinder airflow. Keep in mind also that most kitchen exhausts are equipped with replaceable filters, so make sure they are not saturated to maintain optimal performance.
Mount hydration stations
Keep yourself hydrated by stocking up your fridge on mint or cucumber-infused water. If you’re a fur parent, make sure your pets never get thirsty by placing water dishes or fountains around your home.
Create your personal oasis
A chilled-out home can work wonders for your state of mind. Beyond just lowering the temperature, consider adding a water fountain near your workspace. The gentle flow of water and soothing sounds can also help you unwind and find tranquility amidst your tasks.
Sounds cool? With these design tips, you can craft a cozy home workspace, keeping things chill even when temperatures rise.