Heat is the leading cause of weather-related fatalities each year. During extreme heat, your body can easily overheat and become dehydrated. People can suffer from exhaustion, cramps or even heatstroke, which could damage your vital organs or even cause death if not treated immediately. Most at risk for heat exhaustion are young children and seniors, as well as anyone who is overweight or on medications, such as antihistamines, diuretics or beta blockers.
"We're in the height of the summer season and likely to have more bouts of extreme heat temperatures. By taking proactive measures, you can create safe, cooler and more comfortable conditions in your home," said Jim Hamilton, president of the Silicon Valley Association of Realtors.
Hamilton suggests the following tips for preparing your home for extreme heat temperatures from the Silicon Valley Association of Realtors, ready.gov, and other sources.
Insulate and seal
Insulation keeps your home cool in the summer and warm in the winter. Add insulation to your attic, walls, and crawl spaces to prevent the sun's heat from penetrating your living area. Seal any air leaks around windows and doors to prevent warm air from entering and cool air from escaping.
Drapes, window shades or reflective window film
Close drapes/blinds to help keep the temperature down inside your home. Window shades or reflective window film help maintain cooler temperatures indoors by helping bounce heat off your house. Double-pane windows keep your home cool during a heatwave.
Check ventilation
Make sure that your ventilation system is in good working order. Clean or replace air filters regularly and keep furniture away from outside walls to allow air to efficiently flow around the house.
Adjust direction of ceiling fans
Home ceiling fans function in both hot and cold temperatures. To get rid of hot air, make sure the fan blades move counterclockwise. Change the fan direction back to clockwise during cooler seasons.
Check air conditioning
Check your air conditioning system before summer sets in. The last thing you want is for your air conditioner or central air system to break down during a heat wave. That said, clean or replace air filters, the AC condenser unit pad and coils to ensure that the unit is functioning efficiently. Consider installing a programmable thermostat to regulate the temperature and energy use.
Outdoor shade blocks heat
Plant trees around your property to provide shade. Consider installing outdoor shades like a retractable awning or a pergola to shield your windows from intense sunlight.
Conserve energy
Save energy by taking small steps, like turning off unnecessary lights. Use energy-efficient LED bulbs and appliances. Run appliances during off-peak hours early in the morning or later in the evening when the energy demand is lower. Avoid the peak energy-use hours, which are from 3 p.m. to 10 p.m.
Run your dishwasher and clothes washer only when full. For laundry, use cold water instead of hot water. Keep costs low by using the microwave instead of the conventional oven.
According to the U.S. Department of Energy, the best indoor temperature for your home during the summer months is 78 degrees and 68 degrees Fahrenheit in the winter months. Every degree above 78 degrees will reduce cooling costs by 3-6%.
"Help beat the heat, stay safe, stay cool, and don't forget that your pets need protection, too," said Hamilton. "Never leave pets in the car! Temperatures rise quickly even with the windows down and can be deadly for your pet. Avoid exercising with your pet outside on extremely hot days, and make sure your pet has access to plenty of water."
The Silicon Valley Association of REALTORS® (SILVAR) is a professional trade organization representing over 4,000 REALTORS® and Affiliate members engaged in the real estate business on the Peninsula and in the South Bay. SILVAR promotes the highest ethical standards of real estate practice, serves as an advocate for homeownership and homeowners, and represents the interests of property owners in Silicon Valley.
The term "REALTOR®" is a registered collective membership mark which identifies a real estate professional who is a member of the National Association of REALTORS® and who subscribes to its strict Code of Ethics.
Variations of this article have appeared in local area newspapers.
For further information, please email or call the SILVAR office at (408) 200-0100.