Tips to Keep Your Bedroom Cool In Summer
When summer is around the corner, the idea of sunny beaches and warm evenings sounds like a delight, but a heated-up bedroom can be a major downer. You don’t want to turn and toss against warm beddings that sweat you up all night and mess with your sleep. Neither do you want to overwork your HVAC system to barely make your bedroom “sleep worthy” while your energy bills go through the roof!
Time to get rid of all such concerns because we have brought you expert tips on how you can keep your bedroom cool in summer by making your interior work together instead of relying solely on your air conditioning system. Many factors can undermine the ability of your cooling system, such as insufficiently insulated windows and unseen loopholes, pun intended. From quick hacks like reversing the fan directions to professional fixes like blackout curtains or roman blinds for windows, this blog will help you control and cool your bedroom temperature better so that you can easily drift off.
- Opt for Breathable Bedlinen
The choice of the bedding fabric can make a world of difference in making your sleep comfortable and cool. Opt for breathable fabrics like cotton and linen for your beddings, which will allow air circulation near the skin and absorb sweat to keep you dry. Also, make sure your sleepwear is breathable so that you can have a restful sleep instead of waking up soaked. In addition, if you have oversized picture windows, chances are that your bed is exposed to sunlight all day, so opt for light-colored bedding which will not absorb all that heat.
- Draught-Proof the Bedroom
If you feel like your HVAC system is giving its best but still struggling to keep the bedroom cool, some sneaky cracks that let in cool drafts might be the reason. Irrespective of their size, they can leak the cool air and invite warm air from the outside. You can find these gaps around the doors and windows – grab some caulk to seal the cracks and lay a large rug to cover drafts in the floorboards. Even power outlets can have gaps that you can seal with outlet insulators. If you are not a DIY person, you can call a professional to get it done perfectly!
- Opt for Blackout Window Treatments
Up to 30% of your indoor temperature is determined by the type of window treatments in your bedroom. Even when drawn closed, they can still allow sunlight and heat inside your bedroom, forcing your HVAC system to work overtime. Blackout treatments can do a fantastic job in completely shielding your room from the sunlight and preventing it from heating up. They have a thermal coating that can help insulate your bedroom and preserve the cool temperature inside. To seal the deal, opt for made-to-measure curtains or blinds that extend beyond your window sills by 3-4 inches and mount them outside the recess so that sunlight doesn’t sneak in at the seams.
Since dark colors tend to conduct heat more than bright colors, choose your blackout treatments drenched in bright colors such as white or beige to keep them cool. A dark cool place, insulated from heat and sound in this way will create a perfect sleeping environment. If you already have non-blackout treatments on your windows such as sheer blinds or curtains, layering them with blackout fabrics will produce the same results when drawn closed.
- Minimize the Use of Electronic Devices
It is quite common to plug in electronic devices like phones and laptops and let them juice up all night. But, they also release heat which can make your room warmer. Instead of plugging it in before bed, let it be the first thing you do when you wake up and let it charge while you get busy with your morning routine. This will prevent heat emission and also save electricity since devices typically don’t need to be charged all night. If you don’t need your devices nearby while you sleep, consider charging them away in a separate room. This not only extends the life of your devices but also protects you from their constant radiation so you can enjoy quality sleep.
- Reverse the Fan Rotation
It is a simple yet highly effective way to enhance and cool the indoor temperature. If you have a fan in your bedroom, use it before nightfall to let out the warm air so your HVAC has to work less than before to cool the bedroom. When the fan rotates counter-clockwise it pushes the cool air downward and makes the hot air rise above away from the floor. You can find the switch on the fan’s base or the motor housing above it.
- Go Green
While too many indoor plants are not recommended for confined and insulated …
Sustainable Design Trends in Real Estate
Sustainability has become a major focus in the real estate industry as the world grapples with the effects of climate change and resource depletion. Increasingly, developers, architects, and investors are recognizing the need to incorporate sustainable practices into both commercial and residential properties. These environmentally friendly initiatives are not only beneficial for the planet but also appeal to modern buyers and tenants who prioritize eco-conscious living. As a result, sustainable design is becoming a key driver in the evolution of real estate.
Green Building Materials
One of the most significant trends in sustainable real estate is the use of green building materials. These materials are designed to minimize environmental impact by being renewable, recyclable, or energy-efficient. Bamboo, for instance, is being used more frequently due to its rapid growth and durability. Recycled steel and reclaimed wood are also popular choices, helping to reduce waste and preserve natural resources.
In addition to the materials themselves, the process of sourcing and manufacturing these products plays a critical role in sustainability. Developers are seeking suppliers who use energy-efficient production methods and sustainable sourcing practices. This holistic approach to building materials not only lowers the environmental footprint of a property but also contributes to a healthier indoor environment for occupants.
Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy
Energy-efficient homes are at the forefront of sustainable real estate. From solar panels to smart thermostats, energy-saving technologies are becoming standard features in modern properties. Solar power, in particular, has gained significant traction as the cost of installation has decreased and the technology has improved. Many homes and commercial buildings are now equipped with solar panels to reduce reliance on the grid and cut down on electricity bills.
Similarly, energy-efficient appliances, LED lighting, and advanced insulation techniques are being used to reduce overall energy consumption. Smart home systems allow homeowners to monitor and control their energy usage, further enhancing the efficiency of their living spaces. These technologies not only make properties more sustainable but also more attractive to buyers and tenants looking to reduce their carbon footprint.
Water Conservation and Landscaping
Water conservation is another critical aspect of sustainable design. In regions where water is scarce, developers are incorporating systems to minimize water use, such as rainwater harvesting, greywater recycling, and low-flow fixtures. These systems help reduce the strain on local water supplies and ensure that properties remain environmentally responsible.
Sustainable landscaping is also on the rise. Native plants that require less water and maintenance are being used to create beautiful, low-impact outdoor spaces. Permeable paving and green roofs are being integrated into designs to manage stormwater runoff and reduce the heat island effect in urban areas. These eco-friendly landscaping choices contribute to the overall sustainability of a property and create a more harmonious relationship with the surrounding environment.
The Role of Technology in Sustainability
Technology is playing a pivotal role in driving sustainability in real estate. Smart home systems, renewable energy sources, and energy-efficient materials are all supported by advancements in technology. Even in investment models like fractional ownership, where multiple investors share ownership of a property, technology is key to managing properties efficiently and ensuring they meet sustainability standards. Fractional ownership can also promote sustainable development by enabling investors to share resources and minimize the environmental impact of their properties.
As sustainability becomes an increasingly important factor for buyers and investors, properties that prioritize eco-friendly practices are likely to see higher demand and long-term value. In markets like Bali, sustainable design is becoming a significant focus, with companies such as Geonet Properties offering valuable insights into how investors can incorporate sustainability into their real estate ventures.…