Summer is almost upon us, and soon we’ll be searching for every possible way to escape the heat. If you’re looking for ways to avoid summer’s skyrocketing temperatures without breaking the bank, here are a few tips that are sure to help you to keep your cool.

Try a Fan

Many of us first look to air conditioning when searching for ways to keep cool, but fans are often a better and more efficient bet. Fans require significantly less energy to operate, and circulating air can go a long way to make your home feel cooler. The average fan costs only a penny per hour to operate whereas central air conditioning runs 36 cents or more. Investing in a few ceiling fans can easily save hundreds of dollars of electricity bills per year.

Hit the Water

Swimming is one among many exciting pastimes we use to stay cool, but it is not the only way we can use water during the summer months. Being well-hydrated keeps our internal body temperature lower, making us feel cooler regardless of the surrounding temperature. A spray bottle is a great way to cool down quickly, particularly when sprayed on the head or back of the neck where our bodies perceive heat more acutely. A moist cloth or reusable ice pack is a great way to prolong the effect.

Beat the Heat: 4 Everyday Tips To Keep Your Family Cool

Get a Tune-up

While walking may be better for our health, driving to our destinations is a great way to stay cooler. Unfortunately, an improperly tuned vehicular HVAC system wastes gas, wears out components and, most disappointingly, leaves us at our destinations hot and frustrated. Not only can car maintenance from companies like Speedy Brake and Apollo Muffler keep you cooler, but it can avert any other impending issues you may experience with your vehicle, and you’ll usually have it back that same day.

Change Your Diet

Eating differently is a great way to stay cool. Zesty herbs such as mint are refreshing to the skin and pallet. Cucumbers are almost entirely made of water, and are a great way to both rehydrate and enjoy a filling snack. Finally, look to spicier foods as a way to increase perspiration and cool the skin. While it may not make sense to eat hot foods in hot temperatures, many cultures from hot climates prefer spicy foods for just this reason.

Don’t suffer under summer’s brutal sun. By following the above tips, you can weather the most intense heat waves with the greatest of ease.