Summer may bring vacations, camps and other fun, but it also brings the heat! Keep cool with these cost-effective hacks – no AC required.
AC Alternatives
Power up the fans
It’s no surprise that air conditioning runs up an electric bill. If you want to beat the heat without AC, floor or window fans are probably your best bet. Large and small fans can be placed throughout the house and in bedrooms for a good night’s sleep without tossing and turning. Purchasing a fan won’t break the bank either, and it’s a far more affordable option than costly AC bills.
Drape your windows
Using drapes or curtains on your windows is a simple, affordable AC alternative. The thick material can block sunlight from entering through the windows, which can cool the room significantly. By opening the windows during the evening, cool air can circulate while the sun is down.
Avoid the oven
Using an oven or a stovetop in the middle of the day can raise the temperature in the kitchen and potentially around the house. By cooking and baking only in the morning and evening, you can reduce temperatures during the hottest times of the day.
Dive into the neighborhood pool
Pack up the coolers and head to the community pool! Public pools are a city’s best-kept secret. Philadelphia alone has 70 outdoor public pools, which is the most of any city in the United States. Most people don’t know that public pools are completely free! Check out where your neighborhood swimming pool is located. Pool hours are typically held Monday through Friday between 11 a.m. and 7 p.m., and Saturday and Sunday from noon to 5 p.m. Some pools hold specific group sessions like adult swim, family swim and general lessons, which are great for the entire family to get involved.
Host a block party
If you’re going stir crazy inside a stuffy house, take to the street! Celebrate summer with family and friends outdoors with a Slip ’N Slide or water balloons. The kids will be entertained for hours, and adults can also enjoy taking part in the activity. Keep the entertainment going by turning up the music and really making it a party!
Enjoy refreshing treats like Popsicles, water ice or smoothies. Cold food like salads or fruit dishes are great for a neighborhood barbecue. When the evening brings a cool breeze, fire up the grill and cook hot dogs, hamburgers and chicken.
While it’s tempting to crank up the AC when temperatures start to creep up during the summer, consider these alternatives to stay cool and save some money on your electric bill.
As credit unions continue to grow in the United States, PFCU remains committed to helping ordinary Philadelphians reach their goals to be financially independent. Stop by and check us out!
Erin Ellis
Accredited Financial Counselor ®
Philadelphia Federal Credit Union
eellis@PFCU.COM