It’s a safe bet that nearly every Kansas Citian has sad at least a time or two in the past few months, “it’s so HOT!” With frequent heat advisories across our state of Missouri, it can be hard to keep cool, making it miserable to step outdoors. At Cates Heating and Cooling, we know a thing or two about keeping cool — it is part of our job, after all. That’s why we’ve rounded up some tips to stay cool all summer so you can enjoy the best that summer has to offer!

Tip #1: Eat cool foods and drink cool drinks

Sure, a hot plate of pasta or a stack of warm pancakes is deliciously satisfying but too hot to enjoy in the summer months, unless we have a cold front moving in (HA – very rare in the Midwest during summertime). Opt for cool foods to serve the family, especially during the heat of the day. From vegetable and fruit salads to cool pita sandwiches, there are plenty of recipes to choose from that’ll cool you down and satisfy everyone’s taste buds. Plus, opting not to cook hot meals will help keep your home cooler by not turning on a hot oven or stove. Bonus? Less dirty dishes!

Love sipping on your hot cup o’ joe every morning? Switch to iced coffee! According to well-known coffee company, Mr. Coffee, the average hot cup of coffee is served between 120°F-140°F (that’s hot!). Enjoying an ice-cold coffee or cold brew will cool you down while satisfying your craving for caffeine.  Not a coffee drinker? Try iced tea instead!

Tip #2: Opt for indoor activities

Too hot to be outside? There are plenty of indoor activities to keep everyone entertained, even your little ones! Visit the underwater world at SEA LIFE Kansas City Aquarium, build LEGOs at LEGOLAND Discovery Center, educate the family at The National Museum of Toys/Miniatures, or catch a family movie at one of our local movie theaters. Trying to save money? Build indoor forts, create your own movie day/night, play board games — the options are endless! An indoor, air conditioned environment will keep everyone cool and calm. To discover more activities the family will love, check out Visit KC!

Tip #3: Choose clothing wisely

We’ve all been there before: you start to sweat in the heat and your clothing sticks to your body. Gross! Polyester, rayon, denim – they’re all heavier fabrics that don’t allow the skin to breathe. Wear loose-fitting cotton fabrics that dry out dampness. The same goes for sheets; stick to cotton sheets that make sleeping in the hot summer nights cooler versus wool or flannel sheets.

Tip #4: Take advantage of the evening temperatures

Get outside when the sun starts to set! Evening summer temps drop nearly 20 degrees when the sun sets, making them much more comfortable. Let the kids play outside or swim after 4PM – they’ll burn some energy in the cooler temps, preventing them from overheating. Added bonus? UV rays are less harmful after 4PM.

Tip #5: Regularly maintenance your A/C unit

Having your air conditioner repaired or tuned-up annually ensures your A/C unit is running optimally and even helps avoid costly repairs. A well-maintained A/C unit keeps cold air flowing throughout your home, helping you stay cool during the summer. We know your unit is kicking on multiple times a day which can lead to costly energy bills. Click here to learn how you can save on your cooling bill!

At Cates, we’ve specialized in heating and cooling services for over 40 years, so you can say we’re experts when it comes to A/C repair.  Our experts have seen it all, repaired it all and service all brands so you know you’re in good hands. Hurry to take advantage of our special offer this summer: a FREE A/C service call with repair – a $98.00 value!

Follow the tips above to keep cool and to take advantage of the duration of summer – it’ll be over before you know it!