Latest news with #summerTips
Motor 1
5 days ago
- Automotive
- Motor 1
‘It's What My Ph.D Is In:' Doctor Shares Scientific Trick to Instantly Cool Down Your Hot Car This Summer. Here's What to Do
It's summer, and a heat wave is sweeping across the United States, which means your car is probably a rolling oven. According to Hannah Fry ( @fryrsquared ), a fluid dynamics expert with a Ph.D. and a knack for social media, there's a surprisingly simple hack to cool your car down fast. 'That age-old dilemma of choosing between having a non-sweltering car or baffling a passerby because you look like a fool who doesn't know how to use a door,' Fry jokes in the caption of her Instagram Reel, which has racked up over 6.5 million views. Cool Your Car Down Fast Fry swears by it and says she uses it herself. Other content creators on TikTok have shown similar tricks using windows on opposite sides to create airflow. 'This is the trick I continue to use,' Fry, a Cambridge University math professor, says. 'It's what my Ph.D is in: fluid dynamics.' Here's how it works: Open one of your car's rear windows. Then, on the opposite side, rapidly open and close the front door. For example, if you roll down the window behind the driver's seat, swing the passenger-side front door open and shut quickly multiple times. The idea is to create airflow: the door movement forces the stale, stifling air out and pulls fresh and hopefully cooler air in. 'When you open and close the door, it sweeps out all the air already in the car,' Fry explains. That action creates a low-pressure zone that draws out the 'hot, sweaty, horrible' air—via what she calls 'bulk flow'—and replaces it with 'nice, fresh, easy air' from outside. Is This Legit? While Motor1 hasn't tested it, the science backs Fry up. Opening a window creates a path for air to enter or exit. Pair that with an open-and-close motion on the opposite side, and you're enhancing airflow, creating a natural breeze that helps flush out hot air. And it's not just for cars. The same technique can help cool down rooms in your house. According to Marvin Replacement , different window types ventilate differently: double-hung windows push hot air out, casement windows catch side breezes, and slider windows let you adjust airflow. Bay and bow windows offer even more ventilation thanks to their wide flanking panes. Viewers Confirm Car Cooling Trick Works Commenters said Fry's trick could save them from a lifetime of sweltering in hot, stuffy cars. 'You've just improved my life more than you know Hannah,' one person wrote. 'This may be the best Reel I have ever seen,' another joked. Some confirmed they've already been using the trick, just without the science. 'This is how I do it—change the air,' one said. 'I may not know the science, but I know the sense of it.' Electric car owners chimed in, too. 'Cool trick. Or just do it from the app,' a Tesla owner wrote. 'Or set 'cabin overheat protection' mode so it never gets too hot in the first place.' Others say it works in tiny rooms, too. 'I do this with my window and door in my tiny room,' one woman said. 'Additionally I also take a towel and move it in giant circles vertically to drag the cool air and flush out the hot air. I play music and dance a lil.' Another added, 'Works with houses too! My husband stands at the back door to stop it slamming, while I stand at the front door wafting it open and closed! Really shifts all that stagnant, hot air!' Sure, doing this in public might draw some stares, as Fry experienced. But fans say it's worth it. 'Lol people look at me like I'm crazy but I don't give a [expletive],' one commenter said. Motor1 has reached out to Fry via email. We'll be sure to update this if she responds. More From Motor1 Maserati GT2 Revealed As MC20 Race Car With 621 HP And Air Conditioning Australian Police Dogs In Volkswagen Tiguan Get Air Conditioning You'll Have To Wait Longer for the Dodge Charger Sixpack Mazda Can't Deliver New Miatas to Customers Share this Story Facebook X LinkedIn Flipboard Reddit WhatsApp E-Mail Got a tip for us? Email: tips@ Join the conversation ( )
CTV News
5 days ago
- General
- CTV News
How To Choose A Portable Air Conditioner
Learn how to choose the best portable air conditioner : key features, cooling power, and expert tips to stay cool all summer. Portable air conditioners are extremely popular products for getting rid of hot air in small rooms or houses/apartments without central air conditioning. Their cost, maintenance demands, and energy efficiency are often superior to that of standard whole-house air conditioning units, too, so they are great options for people who need cooling power on a budget. Whether you are getting advice from an associate in a store or doing your own shopping on Amazon, there are some questions you need to consider and a long list of features to prioritize. Overall, there's a lot that goes into choosing a portable air conditioner; let's investigate. Questions To Ask Yourself How Many Square Feet Do I Need It To Cover? Most portable AC units are window air conditioners, and they will require a fixed position for an exhaust hose to expel all of the heat and moisture they collect. As a result, you won't be able to move the machine easily daily. Considering the coverage area you need taken care of is therefore an important step before you start browsing, as you'll need to have an idea of the window unit's ideal size and cooling capacity. What Do I Need A Portable AC Unit For? Portable air conditioners actually have two functions: the main one is to create cool air, and the other is to dehumidify the air. Deciding the importance of each of these functions is a step you should take before committing to a purchase. Some models will have dehumidification as a minor secondary function that happens as a byproduct of cooling the air. If you need a machine that relieves the humidity in your home in addition to cooling the air, you'll want to look for a model that can actively dehumidify without changing the air temperature simultaneously. Will It Be Working With An HVAC System Or As A Standalone? Some people purchase a portable air conditioner as their sole relief from summer heat, but others choose to use it in conjunction with their central air system to target certain rooms that aren't cooling as effectively, have an excess level of warm air production from machines or appliances, or that require a cooler temperature than the rest of the home. Making this distinction before shopping for a portable window AC unit will help you narrow down the market to models that suit your airflow and square footage needs. How Portable Does It Really Need To Be? The best portable air conditioners are not always as portable as you'd expect, so it is a good idea to understand your needs before you start shopping. If the machine needs to be movable regularly, you'll want to avoid a model that comes with a window kit because it will be more difficult to get it mobile. Instead, a simple exhaust hose draped out an open window or sliding door will be best. If a more permanent solution is needed, a venting kit unit is ideal. Will A Professional Install It Or Is This A DIY Project? Most portable air conditioners can be installed with minimal hassle by the average individual. However, some machines will require a slightly more complex or permanent installation that you may be more comfortable handing off to a professional handyman. Being aware of your capabilities is important in order to ensure that you experience a successful and painless installation process. Features To Consider There is a wide range of portable air conditioners on the market, and they all have their own collection of features. Since it would be almost impossible to find a single unit that fits your budget, room size, and comes with all of the features you want, you'll have to prioritize. BTU Rating The BTU (British thermal units) rating of a portable air conditioner is a representation of its power and cooling capacity. For small rooms, a minimum of 7500 BTU is ideal. Medium rooms should be managed by a 10,000 BTU machine, and large rooms will require a machine with a rating of 15,000 BTU or more. Single-Hose Vs Dual-Hose The two main model types for portable air conditioners are single-hose and dual-hose. Single-hose units will be less expensive and simpler to install, but they will also be less effective due to their simpler design. Dual-hose models are often chosen for larger spaces due to their superiority in efficiency. They will be more expensive and more difficult to maintain, however. Programmable Timer and/or Thermostat Most modern portable air conditioners will have a built-in thermostat and/or timer that offers you the convenience of a 'set it and forget it' machine. Most timers will have a range of less than an hour to multiple hours that can allow you to effectively cool down a room when you need to leave without wasting any energy. Thermostat control allows you to set your ideal temperature and have the machine maintain it for you; this system will use more energy as the machine is always on to some degree, but it is more convenient. Self-Evaporative Vs. Gravity Drain Vs. Tank System Air conditioners work by using a compressor to generate refrigerant, and then cycling that refrigerant through condenser coils to draw moisture out of the air and cool down the temperature. There are three ways that a portable AC unit can get rid of this moisture. The most common option is a self-evaporative method; the moisture will be sent by evaporator coils to turn it back into water vapour so it can be expelled with the hot air. A gravity drain system uses a hose to constantly drain the water from the machine; this will require a bit more setup, but is also quite convenient. Tank systems aren't all that popular anymore, but there is still the chance that you'll come across a model that uses a water reservoir to contain the water until you dump it out. This will require vigilance on your part to ensure that it doesn't overflow. Remote Control or Wifi Connectivity It is not uncommon for portable air conditioners to come with a remote control. This enables you to control various settings without needing to physically touch the machine; the convenience of this speaks for itself. If you're looking for machine control that goes a step further, you may want to investigate units that offer WiFi connectivity. You'll be able to use an app on your smartphone to adjust settings rather than relying on a physical remote that you may end up losing. Dehumidifying Capacity The dehumidifying function of portable ACs is not a static feature. It varies depending on the size and purpose of a unit. Some models will function as passive dehumidifiers, meaning they only remove as much moisture as is naturally removed as the air is cooled down. Other machines can take a more active role and are actually capable of dehumidifying the air without adjusting the temperature. Noise Level/Decibel Rating If you plan on leaving your portable AC unit running constantly, especially overnight, the noise rating of the machine is an important consideration you need to make. Many Frigidaire, Whynter, and Black+Decker models use thoughtful designs to limit the noise of the machine and reduce the disruption to your life. The noise level of the fan is usually balanced in order to cover the noise of the compressor, but not affect your daily living. Fan Speeds Most portable air conditioners are outfitted with multiple fan speeds in order to adjust to the air quality and temperature. If the room air is very hot and humid, the machine should run at full capacity. If the air is just a bit warm and not overly humid, the lower settings will be more than capable of handling the job effectively and with limited waste of power. Energy Efficiency Energy efficiency is an important factor to consider when looking at a machine that is going to be running for long periods of time. You should always look for a unit that is Energy Star certified to ensure it is efficient with its energy usage and won't be too damaging to the environment or your wallet. Our Top Picks for a Portable Air Conditioner:
Daily Mail
12-06-2025
- Business
- Daily Mail
Property expert reveals ten things homeowners can do on the cheap (or for free) right now to add value to their home in time for a summer sale
A property expert has revealed her top tips for homeowners looking to sell their homes this summer. Liv Conlon, 26, originally from Glasgow, runs an award-winning property staging business that furnishes over 400 homes a year to make them more appealing to potential buyers, as well as StagerBoss - a coaching business that teaches other women how to do the same. This summer, experts are predicting a summertime boom with increased interest from potential buyers, Liv explained, adding that property prices are also expected to rise. However, she added, 'This doesn't mean your house sale is guaranteed - nor that you'll be able to sell it at the fee you want for it, or even above. 'As the CEO of a multi-award-winning property staging business, ThePropertyStagers, this is where my expertise comes in. I've helped thousands of homeowners sell their homes faster and for above the asking price. 'Whether you have a sprawling garden or a cosy top-floor flat with no outdoor space, summer is the season to make the most of your entire home. 'This doesn't have to mean expensive renovations or a full décor overhaul. Sometimes, small, inexpensive changes can have the biggest impact.' As such, Liv, who now lives in Marbella, has shared her top ten affordable furnishing tips that might help a home stand out from the crowd. First, property expert Liv advised sellers to switch up soft furnishings inside the home. She said, 'One of the quickest ways to signal a new season is with your textiles. Swap heavy throws and dark cushions for lighter, brighter options. 'Think jewel-toned velvets for a bold look or soft lavenders, pale greens, and sunshine yellows for a subtler summer palette. Lightweight linen or cotton fabrics also keep your space feeling breezy and fresh.' Next, she said seasonal tableware can make a world of a difference in creating a summer haven. 'You don't need a garden to embrace alfresco vibes,' she said, adding, 'Treat yourself to colourful outdoor-style tableware - melamine plates, acrylic tumblers, or bamboo salad bowls - that feel fun, casual, and summery. 'Lay your table with a vibrant runner, some woven placemats and enjoy meals that feel like mini holidays.' Liv also said that adding fresh or faux flowers in every room can help attract potential buyers. She said, 'Flowers are the ultimate seasonal refresh. Dot fresh blooms around your home - in the hallway, on coffee tables, even the bathroom. She urged those looking to sell their homes to refresh their furnishings to help attract potential buyers 'If you're on a budget or want longevity, high-quality faux stems can have the same uplifting effect and last all summer long.' Liv's fourth tip was to alter the scent of the home depending on the season, adding that it's a 'powerful' tool. She said, 'Swap out woody or spiced winter candles for fresh citrus, coconut, sea salt or fig-inspired fragrances. 'A diffuser or a few scented tealights in summery notes can subtly transform the atmosphere of your space.' Liv's next tip explained the importance of using mirrors to reflect natural light during the summertime. She said, 'Summer is all about sunshine. Reflect more natural light by adding mirrors to darker corners, or repositioning existing ones to catch the morning or evening light. 'You could even pick up inexpensive stick-on mirror tiles to create a bespoke reflective feature wall.' Liv also provided five tips that might help improve the appearance of outdoor space, including refreshing outdoor cushions. She said, 'Outdoor cushions take a beating in the elements, so if yours are faded or stained, it's time for a quick revamp. 'Look for affordable cushion covers in bold stripes, tropical prints, or Mediterranean-inspired patterns. Even a new set of ties or trims can make existing cushions feel brand new.' Liv added that colourful glassware can also help draw positive attention. 'Whether it's a balcony, a courtyard, or a full patio, adding a splash of colour to your outdoor dining setup goes a long way. 'Think coloured glass tumblers, carafes, or even mismatched vintage finds. They sparkle in the sunlight and create an instant sense of celebration. Next, Liv added some simple steps to help homeowners revive tired outdoor furniture without having to splash out on new items. She said, 'A quick scrub-down with soapy water, a coat of spray paint in a bold hue, or a wood stain refresher can make old chairs or benches look brand new. Add a throw or outdoor blanket to soften the space.' Liv also advised homeowners to introduce solar lighting. She said, 'Create evening magic with inexpensive solar lanterns, string lights or LED tea lights. 'Line a path, hang lights in a tree, or dot them around your balcony railing. They're budget-friendly, eco-conscious and they extend your summer evenings outdoors. The property expert's last piece of advice was for homeowners to 'plant with personality'. She said, 'If you don't have a garden, try window boxes, balcony pots, or even a vertical planter. 'Look for bright flowers like geraniums, petunias, or marigolds - or go for herbs like basil and mint that are both beautiful and practical. Upcycle old tins or baskets into quirky planters for added charm. 'Summer is about creating spaces that invite you to relax, unwind and enjoy. Whether you're sipping spritzers on a patio or lounging under a fan in a studio flat, these simple updates can breathe fresh life into your home.
The Sun
18-05-2025
- Business
- The Sun
10 summer energy bill checks that you need to do NOW to save hundreds
HOUSEHOLDS can make the most of warmer temperatures and longer days to slash the cost of energy bills. There are a host of tricks to cut costs over summer months and some won't cost you a penny. 1 From keeping curtains closed to switching to LED light bulbs and reducing your shower times, you could save a bundle. Here are 10 checks to make now to save you money over the summer - combined, they could help you claw back £308. Close your curtains - £27 Closing your curtains on hotter days will keep your home cool and means you won't have to use an electrical fan. Fan running costs vary but can range between 1p and 3p per hour. It might not seem like a lot, but if you are running a fan for 10 hours a day across June, July and August (92 days), you're looking at spending around £27.60. Meanwhile, closing your curtains costs nothing and can be done in a matter of seconds. Open windows and internal doors to let natural ventilation flow through your home and keep temperatures down too. If you can, make sure to open them on opposite sides of the home as well as this will encourage better air flow. From TV to energy... tips to save you money on 7 bills that are going up in April Switch off lights and swap to LED - £7.50 Switching off lights after leaving any room is a quick and easy way of cutting energy bills over the summer. Not just that, but the type of light bulbs you use can have a big impact on how much you pay overall. The Energy Saving Trust says you can save up to £3 per year for every traditional halogen bulb you switch to an LED bulb. Swap out 10 lightbulbs in your home and that's £30 a year, or £7.50 over three months. You'll have to front up the cost of the new bulbs first, but will end up making major savings over time. Invest in solar lights outside and you can also make the most of all the sunlight over the warmer months and trim down your electric bill. They don't have to cost a bomb either. At the time of writing, Home Bargains offers solar lights starting from £1.49. Outdoor LED lights that run off mains don't cost much to run, but the running costs for solar lights are nil so you're saving at least something. Defrost your freezer - £37 Ice building up in your freezer means the appliance has to work harder to keep temperatures down, in turn driving up your energy bill. So, check yours to see if it needs defrosting. Not only will it keep your costs down, you'll have more space to fit extra bits of food in there too. If you don't defrost your freezer regularly, experts previously estimated it can cost you as much as £150 extra a year - £37.50 over three months. Most experts say you should defrost your freezer once or twice a year, so for the sake of a few minutes' work, the savings are well worth it. Dry smart - £46 How you dry your clothes can have a massive impact on your energy bills. You'll definitely want to swerve using a tumble dryer as these cost 97p per hour to run, according to Uswitch. Instead, hang your bits on a clothes line or airer outside and let the sun do all the work. Based on two two-hour washes a week over 12 weeks in the summer, that makes for a hefty saving of £46.56. Even if you don't have an outside area, you can still use an airer inside and put it near the window to catch any rays. Slash your shower time - £15 One quick way to pay less on your water and energy bills is to slash your shower time. The Energy Saving Trust estimates keeping your shower time to just four minutes can save you £60 a year on your energy bills - or £15 across June, July and August. Steer clear of baths too as these cost more than having a quick shower. Lower your washing machine temperature - £6 Washing your clothes at the right temperature ensures any pesky stains and smells are removed, but you don't have to crank up the heat. Washing clothes on a 30°C cycle will do the job just fine and could save you up to £24 a year, according to the Energy Saving Trust - £6 over the summer. Try reducing your washing machine use by one run per week by combining loads too. Turn off 'vampire' devices - £29 So-called "vampire" devices churn through energy when left in standby mode so are worth switching off to cut costs. Some are worse than others but TV boxes, smart TVs and Wi-Fi routers are the worst culprits. It might seem like a tiny thing to do, but the savings can add up fast. Switching off all your vampire appliances can save you around £118 a year - or £29.50 in the three months between June and August. Put your boiler into 'summer mode' - £80 Most boilers have a summer setting which means you can turn off the central heating and still get hot water on demand. The button to trigger the summer mode should be easy to spot - sometimes it's a sun symbol. Activating summer mode could save you around 10% on your annual bill in the three months over the summer as well, Nicolas and James Auckland from Trade Radiators previously told The Sun. Uswitch says the average gas bill in the UK is around £800, meaning a saving of around £80 just by flicking a switch. Get your boiler serviced - £60 Spring might just be the best time to get your boiler serviced - and it could save you money in the long run. Checkatrade says the average cost of getting a boiler serviced is around £100. However, having it checked over will ensure everything is running smoothly and you won't have to call out for an emergency plumber. Checkatrade says the average cost of calling out an emergency plumber is around £110 with their hourly rate £50. That means getting a boiler service in could save you £60. What energy bill help is available? There's a number of different ways to get help paying your energy bills if you're struggling to get by. If you fall into debt, you can always approach your supplier to see if they can put you on a repayment plan before putting you on a prepayment meter. This involves paying off what you owe in instalments over a set period. If your supplier offers you a repayment plan you don't think you can afford, speak to them again to see if you can negotiate a better deal. Several energy firms have schemes available to customers struggling to cover their bills. But eligibility criteria vary depending on the supplier and the amount you can get depends on your financial circumstances. For example, British Gas or Scottish Gas customers struggling to pay their energy bills can get grants worth up to £2,000. British Gas also offers help via its British Gas Energy Trust and Individuals Family Fund. You don't need to be a British Gas customer to apply for the second fund. EDF, Octopus Energy and Scottish Power all offer grants to struggling customers too. Thousands of vulnerable households are missing out on extra help and protections by not signing up to the Priority Services Register (PSR). The service helps support vulnerable households, such as those who are elderly or ill. Some of the perks include being given advance warning of blackouts, free gas safety checks and extra support if you're struggling. Get in touch with your energy firm to see if you can apply.
