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How to Keep Cool in Chicago Without AC
Posted onSurvive the Chicago Summer Heat
High density urban areas like Chicago are full of buildings that hold in heat during the day, making the city a heat island. This makes it hard to stay cool in the city. If you don’t have AC, staying cool gets even harder. And if you do have it, you may be worried about your electricity bill. So, what do you do when the temperatures climb? Here’s a few tips to keep you cool and save energy in Chicago without AC.
Keep Cool with Fans
I grew up in the humid, hot south without AC. And in my experience, fans are your best friend when trying to stay cool.
If you have a ceiling fan, make sure to set it to spin counterclockwise. This pushes cool air down. When using box or standing fans, I recommend having two. Set up one so that it’s blowing air out of a window during the day. At night, turn the fan so that it blows cool night air into your room. This helps push the hot air out of your home. Have another directed at you to cool you off. You can also place a bowl of ice behind this fan. It will pull cold, humid air from the ice and help you feel cool.
A fan's main purpose is to cool the sweat on your skin, lowering your body temperature. However, a fan won’t lower the temperature of your home significantly. When you’re not in a room, turn them off to conserve electricity.
Work Those Windows
Whether you’re in a home or apartment, knowing how to treat your windows can help you stay cool.
During the day, keep your windows closed as much as possible. This is an easy way to keep the heat out. But the covering matters. Insulated cellular shades or window quilts are the best choice, lowering your AC cost by about 30%.
But at night, open your windows wide. This lets the cool night air in and vents the hot air from your home.
Other Tips to Keep Cool Without AC
There’s a few other things you can do to keep cool without AC.
First, water is your friend. Make sure you stay hydrated so you sweat. Sweat is the main way our bodies maintain cooler temperatures. Drink plenty of water and other non-alcoholic and caffeine-free beverages. You can also take a cold shower or bath to lower your temp.
Second, dress for the weather. We all love looking fashionable, but not at the cost of heat stroke. Loose, lightly colored clothing in natural fibers will keep you breezy in the windy city. And don’t forget the sunscreen!
Last, you want to stay inside and in the shade as much as possible. If you are out during the day, take advantage of indoor places with AC. Public libraries, pools, and museums are all great choices. Don't forget, Chicago also offers city cooling centers.
Keep Your Bills Cool with IL Energy Ratings
Now you should feel equipped to handle the summer heat. But what can you do about high electricity rates? The answer is simple. You can shop for a lower rate, compare electricity providers, and find the best electricity plan for you all in one place. Visit https://www.ilenergyratings.com
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