Living Alone Guide Part 16: Seasonal Tips
Summer and Winter Need Different Approaches
Each Season Needs Different Care
AC bills in summer, heating costs in winter... Each season brings different challenges. Knowing what to prepare helps you save money and stay comfortable.
☀️ Summer (June-August)
AC Management
- Set to 78°F/26°C: Each degree lower adds 3% to electricity
- Use fans together: Feels 5°F cooler
- Clean filters: Monthly cleaning improves efficiency
- Use timer: Set 2-3 hour timer instead of running all night
Humidity/Mold Prevention
- Run bathroom fan frequently
- Place moisture absorbers
- Open closet doors to ventilate
- Don't leave wet laundry inside too long
Rainy Season
- Check window seals for leaks
- Use dryer or laundromat for clothes
- Treat mold immediately if it appears
Bug Prevention
- Seal food in containers
- Cover drains
- Take out trash frequently
- Check window screens
❄️ Winter (December-February)
Heating Management
- Set to 68°F/20°C: Dress warmly to save costs
- Use away mode: Don't turn off completely when leaving
- Weather stripping: Seal window/door gaps
- Rugs/carpets: Block cold from floor
Condensation Prevention
- Ventilate 10 min daily (even when cold)
- Wipe condensation immediately
- Keep furniture 2 inches from walls
- Place moisture absorbers
Dealing with Dry Air
- Use a humidifier
- Dry laundry indoors
- Place bowls of water around
- Use moisturizer for skin
Pipe Freeze Prevention
- Keep heat on minimum when away
- Let faucet drip in extreme cold
- Insulate exposed pipes
🌸 Spring (March-May)
Seasonal Transition
- Organize clothes (wash and store winter items)
- Prepare for dust season with air purifier/masks
- Keep windows closed during high pollen days
Spring Cleaning
- Deep clean after winter dust buildup
- Clean AC filters in advance
- Clean windows and screens
🍂 Fall (September-November)
Winter Preparation
- Check heating system
- Inspect window seals, prepare weather stripping
- Get out winter bedding and clothes
Ventilation Time
- Ventilate well on nice days
- Air out bedding in sunlight
Seasonal Checklists
Summer
- ☐ Clean AC filters
- ☐ Place moisture absorbers
- ☐ Check window screens
Winter
- ☐ Check heating system
- ☐ Seal window/door gaps
- ☐ Prepare humidifier
Transitions
- ☐ Organize seasonal clothes
- ☐ Deep clean
- ☐ Check next season's supplies
Wrap-up
A little preparation when seasons change helps you save on bills and stay comfortable. Be proactive!
Next up, we'll cover apartment decorating. Make it look nice without spending much!
※ This article is based on personal experience.
🏠 Living Alone Guide Series
- Part 15: Pet Considerations
- Part 16: Seasonal Tips (Current)
- Part 17: Interior Decorating