It’s no secret that even late summer can be hot in California. Known for its heat waves, Californians are no strangers to Flex Alerts this time of year and the need to stay cool. We have five budget-friendly ideas to help you stay cool this month and use less energy at home, double win! The most important part of getting out of the house to conserve energy is to be sure you set your thermostats above 78 degrees while you’re away from home. Statistics show that every degree above 78 can potentially lead to a cost savings of up to 2%.
Visit a Community Pool
When the temperatures soar, a community pool can be an oasis of relief. Many towns and neighborhoods offer public pools with affordable entry fees, and some even have free entry days or discounts for residents. Taking a dip in a refreshing pool not only helps you stay cool, but it’s also a great way to exercise and unwind with friends and family. Plus, by heading out to a community pool, you can give your air conditioner at home a much-needed break, thus reducing your energy usage.
We found a few local community pools that offer recreational swim hours:
- Arroyo Pool in Davis, CA
- Manor Pool in Davis, CA
- Bobbie Greenwood Community Swim Center in Winters, CA
- Charles Brooks Community Swim Center in Woodland, CA
Catch a Summer Movie Special at Your Local Theater
Beat the heat and indulge in some cinematic magic by catching a summer movie special at your local theater. Many theaters offer discounted tickets during the summer months, making it an economical way to stay cool and entertained. The cool air-conditioned environment will be a welcome escape from the sweltering heat outside. Regal Theaters in Davis offers a few promotional specials including Mystery Movie Monday ($5), Summer Movie Express series ($2), and Regals Crown Club Value Days.
Visit a Local Museum
If you’re looking for a budget-friendly way to keep cool while enriching your mind, consider visiting a local museum. Museums are often well air-conditioned, and many offer free or reduced admission on certain days. Explore the fascinating exhibits, learn about art, history, or science, and let your imagination wander while enjoying a cool and comfortable atmosphere. Not only will you stay refreshed, but you’ll also gain new insights and knowledge in the process.
Try some of these local favorites:
- The Gibson House
- The California Agriculture Museum
- The Winters Museum
- The Manetti Shrem Museum
- Explorit Science Center
- The Bohart Museum of Entomology
Spend the Day at Lake Solano
Nature has a way of providing natural coolness, and spending the day at a nearby lake can be incredibly rejuvenating. Pack a picnic, bring your favorite summer read, and enjoy the serene surroundings while dipping your toes into the water to cool off. Lakes and natural bodies of water offer a refreshing escape from the heat, and the best part is that they don’t rely on electricity, making it an eco-friendly option for beating the heat without increasing your energy consumption.
Lake Solano is a great option for a day well spent outdoors during the summer. Day use is available year round and the campgrounds are available on a first-come, first-served basis. Canoes and kayaks are allowed on the lake and available for rental if you don’t own one. Fishing is also permitted! We recommend checking the website prior to visiting to ensure you’re familiar with the rules and regulations for using the lake.
Cook Outside
During the scorching August days, cooking inside can raise the temperature of your home significantly. Instead, take advantage of the warm weather and cook outside on a grill or have a picnic. Grilling not only keeps your home cooler, but it also adds a fun and enjoyable outdoor dining experience. Prepare some delicious summer recipes and invite friends and family over for a potluck-style gathering. Not only will you avoid using your oven or stovetop, but you’ll also create wonderful memories. You could stay entertained throughout the day with outdoor lawn games, card or board games, or an evening neighborhood bike ride.
Pro Tip: A take and bake pizza will fit perfectly on a traditional briquette-style BBQ grill. An easy summer dinner for the whole family!
Staying cool without skyrocketing your energy consumption is possible with these budget-friendly ideas. So, beat the heat while having a great time visiting a community pool, catching a summer movie, exploring local museums, enjoying the serene beauty of Lake Solano, and cooking outside. Embrace these creative ways to keep cool and save energy, and you’ll have a fantastic and eco-conscious month!