It’s Hot – No Need to Make it Winter Inside

People in Northern Climes love to complain about the cold. Yet one of the first things we do when it gets hot outside is to crank up the air conditioning to recreate arctic conditions in our houses and businesses.

How many times have you gone to the cinema in the summer and had your kid get their tongue frozen to the arm of the metal seat?

When the weather starts getting warm it takes time for people to get used to it. This is called heat acclimatization. By drinking more fluids dressing appropriately the body adjusts and hot weather becomes the new normal. However, since the advent and proliferation of air conditioning, people often take longer to get used to the heat. In fact, I am willing to bet that a lot of people scramble from air conditioned room to air conditioned car to air conditioned room all summer.

Did You Forget Winter Already?! Enjoy the Heat

I recommend holding off turning on the air conditioning for as long as humanly possible – put on shorts, open windows have a couple of cold drinks on the patio. This accomplishes two things. First, it ensures that you don’t immediately start paying higher electricity bills at the start of the summer. Secondly, it allows you to heat acclimatize yourself and everyone in your household. This means when you do turn on your air conditioning you will be able to set it at a much warmer level. Which in turn ensures that your bills are lower. You might have to put up with a few days of whinging and whining from sweaty family members but the results will be worth it.

Even 2 Degrees Matters

Air conditioning is a huge draw on the electrical system. If every home and small business in North America were to keep their air conditioning temperature warmer by 2 to 3 degrees, it would have a huge impact on demand. Enjoy the heat, winter is just around the corner.