Heat Waves Are Becoming More Common Every Year

Hot … boiling … sweltering …

No matter what adjective you choose, an unrelenting sun combined with high humidity can turn your writing area into a virtual steam sauna. Both northern and southern hemispheres have been assaulted by multiple heat waves in recent years. Who wants to write when sweat is pouring into their eyes?

Here are a few tips to make life more livable and your muse more accessible during hot weather.

Tip #1: Start With Your Windows

Close curtains and blinds during the hottest part of the day, and consider light-colored window treatments, which tend to reflect rather than absorb heat.

Once the outside temperature is cooler than it is inside, open all screen-covered windows and doors — unless you’re faced with wildfire smoke. Sorry, the windows will need to stay closed until the smoke clears.

Reflective window film will improve the effectiveness of even energy-efficient glass. The mirror-like outer surface reflects sun while allowing you to see through it. Less sun = less interior heat.

Tip #2: Consider Purchasing an Indoor-Outdoor Thermometer

Or maybe you already have one.

These handy gadgets measure both inside and outside temperatures. At a glance, you can determine when it’s time to open and close curtains and windows.

Tip #3: Be Fan-Smart

One or more box fans set in windows can force out hot air during the cooler parts of the day.

Other fans, strategically placed throughout your home, can direct airflow in the directions you consider best for your comfort.

Tip #4: Close the Doors to Rooms You Don’t Use

Portable or window air conditioning will work better if it’s cooling a smaller space. Ensure that you don’t close bedrooms or bathrooms, though. You don’t want to be hit with a Saharan blast when you need to sleep (or expel all the liquids you’ve been consuming).

Tip #5: Avoid Using Coffeemakers, Stovetop, and Oven

Appliances that heat or cook food and beverages will warm the surrounding air, which will then circulate throughout your home. Barbeque outside instead, or eat out in an air-conditioned restaurant.

If you have no choice but to cook, at least turn on the range hood exhaust fan(s) as long as the stove is hot, and place your coffeemaker under it when brewing fresh coffee.

In fact, you can use the exhaust fan throughout the hottest part of the day. It will vent hot air from your surroundings.

Note: Bathroom exhaust fans also remove heat.

Tip #6: Switch to Energy-Efficient Lightbulbs

Do this before the next heat wave hits, and your body will thank you for it.

Oh, you’ll save money, too.

Tip #7: Insulate the Exhaust Hose of Your Portable AC

Feel the hose when your air conditioner is working. Hot, isn’t it? Several companies manufacture insulated exhaust hose covers/wraps. Keep the heat in the hose, not in your house.

Tip #8: Try One or More Personal Cooling Devices

Search the net or retailer websites for personal cooling devices. Before you buy anything, check reviews. (Who knew that you can’t always trust what manufacturers say?)

I tried a horseshoe-shaped portable neck fan with several vents. It fit over my shoulders and directed room air down my body. I found the highest speed quite noisy for my liking, but if a whirring sound stimulates your creativity, it might help you write. Judging by the number of positive reviews I’ve seen for some brands of these devices, many people like them.

Tip #9: Evaluate Gel Ice Packs

Gel ice packs, normally used for sprains and other injuries, might be worth a try — without the noise of a device that contains fans. You need at least two, so that you can alternate them between fridge and body.

Tip #10: Avoid Running Your Air Conditioner 24/7

Air conditioners ice up after a while, and need time in between operating sessions. Read the manual for each unit and follow manufacturer’s recommendations.

Tip #11: Pay Attention to Your Air Conditioner’s Fan Speed

If you have an automatic setting, use it. Otherwise, avoid leaving the fan on low speed. Like running AC 24/7, an improper fan setting can cause icing and will render your unit useless until the icing has a chance to dissipate.

Tip #12: Remember to Keep Your AC Air Filter Clean

If you have pets, you’ll need to clean the filter more often than if you live without the comfort of animal companions. Ditto if your house is situated in a dusty area.

A dirty filter restricts air flow and forces your air conditioner to work harder. That restricted air flow can also cause your unit to ice up.

Tip #13: Cozy Up to an Icepack

Those icepacks you use for lunch boxes and picnic coolers make good writing companions. Grab a pack from the freezer, spread a folded towel over your lap, place the pack on it, and enjoy.

Some writers place multiple packs in a small plastic dishpan or roasting pan on the floor, set up a fan behind it, and direct the airflow over the ice toward their writing chair. It’s worth a try.

Tip #14: Drink, Drink, and Drink Some More

Hot weather can quickly deplete your body’s water reserves. Keep hydrated.

How Do You Cope With Sweltering Days?

We’d all like to know!