You love your new patio furniture, outdoor cushions and beautifully planted containers. The grill is clean and raring to go, and you may even have a swimming pool sparkling in the background.
But it's a sweltering 98 degrees with no clouds, breeze or relief in the forecast. What was all the hoopla about outdoor entertaining? This is Texas and by late June, we hate the heat.
Stay cool – there is hope. If you take a few simple steps you'll be able to invite all your friends over for a barbecue, no matter the thermometer reading.
The mist of it
A misting line system can make a big difference in comfort. Some professional systems purport to reduce temperatures in the coverage area by as much as 30 degrees.
Misting systems cool outdoor temperatures by introducing water droplets into the air. The moisture absorbs and eliminates much of the environmental heat. Some professional systems claim to lower temperatures by as much as 30 degrees.
Manufacturers of commercial misting systems have caught on to residential demand and now offer viable options for home and patio use. These come in two forms: misting line systems and misting fans. There are pros and cons to each.
Line systems
Misting line systems are usually mounted around the perimeter of an area and generate a mist as water is forced through small nozzles. Mid- to low-pressure home systems generally rely on existing residential water pressure. These systems are very inexpensive and may be easily installed with clips or clamps. Depending on the number of nozzles and length of line, low-pressure systems begin as low as $25.
Moisture: Often, low household water pressure results in mist that is heavy enough to dampen tables, chairs and guests closest to the mist line. For those who don't mind getting a little wet or are seated in a swim suit, these systems work very well. Tilting the misting heads at a 45-degree angle away from the targeted area will lessen noticeable wetness.
Pump: If need be, you can step up to a mid-pressure system that utilizes a pump and alleviates much of the residual wetness. Expect to pay more than $300 for this line system.
Gauges: Home water pressure gauges are available at most hardware stores and will accurately report your household level. Knowing your water pressure will help you choose a system and calculate how many nozzles your line can support. The higher the pressure, the finer the mist.
Carefully read misting kit directions regarding nozzles and expansion possibilities.
Fan systems
Misting fans combine water with moving air, enhancing the overall effect in targeted areas. A water line (hose) is run to the fan and a fine mist is generated by the circulating air. Lower-priced fan systems are available for under $100, as are cooling rings that affix to the front of an existing fan and connect to a water supply.
Water supply and pressure: As with line systems, water supply and pressure play a role in the effectiveness of misting fans. If your pressure is low, consider a fan that comes with a portable water cooler. Chill the water with ice for a quick cool-down. Combined coolers and fans are available in the $500 range.
Humidity: Relative humidity is another factor in misting effectiveness. Rule of thumb: Any misting system works better in lower humidity.
It's a breeze
The simplest way to cool an area is by circulating air. Properly positioned outdoor fans create quick and noticeable reductions in heat. On the patio, poolside or hanging from your porch ceiling, any of the latest all-weather fans will make a big difference and may even keep bugs at bay.
Placement: Make sure your fan is mounted securely in an easy-to-reach location. There will be times when you'll want to adjust the speed and/or direction of airflow.
Outdoor fans may be UL listed for either "wet locations" or "damp locations." Wet-location models are constructed with heavy-duty moisture protective seals for electrical parts and may carry lengthy warranties. These are ideal for generally open and exposed areas. If you're installing a fan in a completely covered space, the UL damp-listed models will suffice.
The right fan: Consider your outdoor décor when selecting fan blades and profile, as well as availability of additional lighting kits. Bigger blades move more air.
Don't substitute an indoor fan for an outdoor unit. They won't hold up and may present serious electrical danger.
Made in the shade
Everyone knows that umbrellas provide shade, but many underestimate the impact of fabric, color, weave and construction in minimizing solar heat and ultraviolet rays.
To stay cool, you need an umbrella that provides airflow and shade.
Airflow: There are two kinds of umbrella that allow airflow in and out: vented and meshed. Vented umbrellas, generally fabric, are topped with a small caplike piece that permits air movement. Mesh umbrellas, typically constructed of woven plastic thread, "breathe," permitting heat to escape.
Fabric: Dark materials generate more shade than their lighter counterparts, showing that more solar heat is being blocked. Unless you are sitting very close to the fabric, you won't feel the absorbed heat and will benefit from the increased amount of shade provided.
UV protection: The elimination of ultraviolet rays is achieved a little differently. The actual weave of the umbrella fabric dictates the degree to which these damaging rays are diminished. Most umbrellas are labeled with a UV index and many provide up to 95 percent protection, regardless of color.
Ease of installation: Don't feel limited by images of traditional umbrella stands. Now you can attach an umbrella (or sun screen) to virtually anything, including side mounts and completely adjustable poles.
Loyd Zisk is a Dallas freelance writer.
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