You still have to prepare meals several times a day and carry out other tasks that generate more heat. How do you keep it cool while still using the kitchen?
Make Sure The AC is in Good Condition
No matter what you try, as long as the AC is not in good condition, you’ll have challenges keeping your home cool. The first step is to ensure that it’s in good working order before the summer season starts. It means having it serviced and repaired if necessary.
Schedule an ac tune-up from Mister Quik Home Services before it gets too hot. Fix issues on time and replace filters regularly. Let the experts check whether the unit is appropriately sized and installed and the vents unobstructed. It will do a better job of cooling your home if it’s in good condition.
Use Fans Correctly
Since fans don’t cool the air, you might think they’re not helpful. However, when used correctly, they make a room feel cooler. During the day, place them in front of open windows. The breeze will cool your kitchen down.
Turn fans off when you close the windows to avoid circulating hot air. When using ceiling fans, make sure they’re rotating counterclockwise. It creates a wind chill effect that will make your kitchen more comfortable.
Limit Cooking When Too Hot
Cooking makes your kitchen hotter, so it’s best to limit it when the mercury starts to rise. If you can, cook meals that don’t require the oven or stove. Try grilling outdoors, using a slow cooker, or preparing no-cook meals. If you have to cook, do it early in the day or late at night when it’s not as hot. Additionally, try to keep cooking times short to minimize the heat in your kitchen.
Note that appliances generate heat, so it’s best to use them sparingly during summer. If you can, do laundry and dishwashing early in the day or late at night. Let the clothes and dishes air-dry and defrost food in the fridge overnight instead of using the microwave. If possible, switch off the appliances after use and unplug them.
Ventilate The Kitchen
Proper ventilation is essential in any kitchen, but it’s even more important in summer. It eliminates the heat and humidity that make your kitchen feel unbearable. When cooking, use the exhaust fan to remove heat, smoke, and odors. Open the windows to let fresh air in and create cross-ventilation. Install a kitchen hood to ensure heat and smoke are appropriately eliminated.
Use Light-Colored Window Treatments
Light-colored window treatments reflect heat instead of absorbing it. It keeps your kitchen cooler, especially if you live in a sunny area. Opt for white or light-colored curtains, blinds, or shades. If you want more privacy, choose sheer material so the light can still come in.
Turn Off Lights
Lights, especially incandescent ones, generate heat. Take advantage of natural light by opening the curtains or shades. If you need artificial light, use LED bulbs as they generate less heat. Switch off the lights when not using the kitchen.
Insulate Doors and Windows
Check for cracks and gaps and seal them using weatherstripping or caulk. The effort keeps the cool air in and hot air out. Add insulation to the attic and crawl spaces as they get hotter during summer. As you will realize, any room that’s not adequately insulated affects the entire house.
The Exercise Is Not As Hard As It Seems
Keeping the temperatures in your kitchen comfortable is not as hard as you might think. It takes conscious effort and some changes in your habits. Once you get used, it will become second nature. The key is to be proactive for your kitchen to stay comfortable when it’s hot.