OMAHA, Neb. (KMTV) — On average, Omaha reaches afternoon highs in the 90's 33 times a year. We are only half way through July, and we've have already hit the 90's 29 times so far this year.
With more heat on the way, there are a few things you can do to cut costs.
Windows could be the reason your house is too hot, and they could be the key to keeping it cool.
New technology in windows design can help keep your house cool on those hot summer days.
"It's called low been argon; it is a microscopic metallic coating that goes on the inside of the outside window pane, it prevents a lot of the suns UV rays from coming in," said Bryce Thompson, owner of Window World. "And there is an argon gas that goes in between the panes of glass, and that is a lot like the pink fiber glass insulation that you will see between your walls, up in your attic. It is a really good thermal insulator, and that is what helps keep and retain the cool air you have during the summer inside of your house and also the warm air you have in the winter months too."
The technology can also help save money by keeping the sun from fading your furniture, carpet, drapes and blinds. Also checking your doors and windows for drafts is a good way to tell if you need an upgrade to an energy efficient window.
But if it's not in the budget, there are a few things you can do to save money.
"You can get weather stripping that has double-sided tape on it and put in the areas where you are noticing drafts and air infiltration coming in around the windows," said Thompson. "It's not going to be the end result you are looking for, but it will help you out until you can replace your windows."
Also, a little less expensive is a smart thermostat. Instead of running all the time, it shuts off at a certain temperature.
Another tip is to close blinds, curtains and shades to keep the hot sun out and cool air in.
Much of the United States is experiencing warmer than average temperatures through the month of July, so hopefully there are a lot more rainy days in the forecast.
