Simple steps to stay cool at home

Our Puget Sound climate is so mild that few of us (about 13 percent, estimates Seattle City Light) have home air conditioners. That's good for energy bills, as well as the environment, but not so good on those rare hot summer days when our homes feel like ovens.

The long-term answers on how to conserve as you stay cool can be found in structural measures such as better insulation and landscaping, but there are common-sense things you can do easily and immediately, say experts.

Keep the heat out

Close blinds, shades or drapes facing the sun (especially south- and west-facing windows) to minimize your home's "solar gain." Keep these windows shut, too. Solar screens, retractable awnings or heat-reflecting film on large sun-facing windows also help.

Whip up the wind

If you're serious about it, monitor the temperature both inside and outside your home. As soon as the sun passes and the temperature dips to the low-70s or so, open the curtains and windows to allow the flow of cooler air. The important thing is to create a breezeway, which can be done as simply as opening aligning windows.

Fans use a fraction of the energy that air-conditioning units do, but they can create a chilling breeze. Wind flow eases the stuffiness that builds, especially when you're blocking the heat with drawn shades. Some say a 1 mph breeze can make you feel about three degrees cooler.

Ceilings fans are best, but window fans are a good option, too, either for drawing air in or out. Positioning a fan in or near an upstairs window can help suck out collected heat or push in cooler air.

Some central heating systems have a "Fan On" or "Fan Only" setting on the thermostat. This allows air to pass through the heater system without warming the air.

Attend to small things

Replace incandescent bulbs with compact fluorescent bulbs, using one-fifth the energy and heat.

Minimize midday clothes washing and drying (how about a clothesline?) and avoid using the dishwasher's drying cycle. Use the microwave instead of the range or oven. Dine on salads, sandwiches or other food that doesn't need cooking. Or consider a barbecue.

Turn off your computer and monitor when not in use. Plug electronics, such as TVs and VCRs, into power strips, and turn power strips off when equipment is not in use.

Watch what you do

Dress for the heat. Wear short-sleeve shirts and shorts. Go barefoot.

Stay hydrated by drinking water.

Seattle may lag in air conditioners, but homes tend to have finished basements that offer good sleeping alternatives to muggy bedrooms on the top floor.

Richard Seven: 206-464-2241 or rseven@seattletimes.com