Dubai summers are infamous all over the world — the temperature breaches 50 degrees Celsius and humidity is stifling. While you can’t do anything about the temperature outside or stop all the sun’s rays from reaching your apartment or villa, you can take concrete steps to cool down your home this summer.
Here are some tips to cool down your Dubai home:
1-Ensure the AC is in perfect order
The air conditioner is your best friend during the summer months. It bestows cool air on you and your family. But keep in mind that not all air conditioners are the same. Many experts believe mini splits are more efficient at cooling an indoor space than traditional HVAC cooling solutions. Since mini splits, usually, use less energy than their window counterparts or a central air-conditioning unit, you should consider them if you are looking for a new cooling solution.
That said, regardless of which type of air conditioner you have, it is important that you ensure it is in top shape before the arrival of summer. That means getting your air conditioner serviced by a licensed HVAC professional. Also, make sure the air conditioner is not low on refrigerant, because then it will not be able to cool your home properly. If the refrigerant level is low — some mini-splits automatically alert you when this happens — get the refrigerant refilled immediately. Last but not the least, check the air filter at least once every month to ensure it has minimum dust inside.
2-Test for Ventilator Leaks
Ensuring that cool air is not leaking from your home is just about as important as keeping your home cool. Hot air can enter your home through cracks near doors or gaps in the windows and dramatically increase the indoor temperature and nullify all the hard work your AC does. Ensure the ventilation units don’t have any leaks; even a minor gap can make the temperature inside rise by a few degrees. If you find some gaps, seal them immediately to beat the Dubai heat wave.
You should also consider getting your windows tinted. This doesn’t cost much money but can go a long way in keeping your Dubai home cool during the summer months.
3-Get some indoor plants
If you have an apartment, consider getting some indoor plants to beat the heat. If you want to cool your home, just any plant won’t do. You need home plants such as sansevieria, cactus, aloe vera, and bonsais.
If you live in a villa, plant more shrubs and trees to keep the surroundings cool. You should maximize the garden space by installing more plants and arranging them in such a way that they properly shade the façade of your house. Properly positioned trees and plants can help you a great deal in keeping your Dubai home cool in the summer months.
4-Throw away the incandescent bulbs
Did you know that indoor lighting can also elevate the temperature inside? Incandescent bulbs are cheaper than LED light bulbs upfront, but they have a far shorter lifespan. Plus, they heat up very quickly, which in turn elevates the indoor temperature. Since LED light bulbs generate minimal heat, they are the best choice if you live in a hot region like Dubai.
5-Unplug devices, if not in use
A plugged-in device radiates some amounts of energy, which can increase the temperature inside your home. Therefore, make it a point to unplug any device if it is not in use.
6-Get creative
Summer is the right time to don your thinking cap and become creative. Do some DIYs to beat the heat. Here are a few examples:
- If you use table fans, why not place an ice bowl in front of it to ensure it blows cool air?
- Make your favorite summer refreshments to keep yourself hydrated
- Invite your best friends and enjoy an ice-cream party indoors
Last but not the least, take multiple cold showers in a day (if possible), a quick dip in the cold swimming pool, and drink plenty of fluids.
Your Dubai home is the place where you will likely be spending a lot of time during the summer months if you don’t plan to go on vacation. Follow these tips to keep your indoor space fresh and cool.
