How to make your outdoor living space as cool and comfortable as indoors

(ARA) - It is easy to enjoy your deck or patio when the weather is warm and pleasant, and memories of cold winters are driven far away. But when the temperatures soar, do you find yourself retreating indoors? Even through the dog days of summer, you can enjoy your outdoor living space by using outdoor versions of indoor comforts such as luxurious furnishings, decorative touches and even air conditioning.

"Americans love being outside in the summer, but extremely hot weather can force people to give up their patio-living, deck-loving ways before they are ready," says Rick Kelly, an outdoor cooling expert with Kuulaire, makers of portable evaporative cooling units. "It is simple and inexpensive to create an outdoor living space everyone can enjoy even on the warmest of days."

To prepare your outdoor living space for cool, comfortable and fun times, consider these outdoor updates:

* Air condition your patio or backyard with a portable evaporative cooler. Made for both outdoor and indoor use, Kuulaire's line of evaporative coolers can lower the temperature in an area as much as 15 to 25 degrees, making patios and decks cool oases on sultry summer days. Depending on the size of the cooler you choose, you can cool 150 to 600 square feet of outdoor living space for as little as $1 a day - less than the cost of running a hair dryer. The portability of the units makes it possible to also use them inside to cool a garage, kitchen or any other space where indoor temperatures tend to rise. Visit www.kuulaire.com to learn more.

* Capture the creature comforts that make indoor living easy by replacing hard plastic or resin furniture with pieces that echo the appeal of indoor furnishings. Plush cushions, floor coverings and accent lighting create a pleasant, welcoming atmosphere that allows you to use your outdoor space during the day and night.

* Cook up a storm, without boosting the heat. Grilling is a summer staple, but be sure to position your grill to maximize safety and minimize the heat delivered to seating areas. Grills should be kept away from furnishings, flammable materials and perishable foods. If food will be stored outside, invest in coolers or portable refrigerators to keep food at applicable temperatures.

Finally, use citronella candles, insect repellent or electric "bug zappers" to keep biting and stinging insects away from your outdoor spaces.

"Americans are expected to stay home this year, rather than taking costly summer vacations due to the recovering economy," Rick Kelly says. "In many cases, it is less expensive and more satisfying to improve your outdoor spaces with features like a portable evaporative cooling unit, than to spend more on a few days of travel."

Courtesy of ARAcontent