Vegas Trackers: Desert AC Hiding Summer Bloat?
By Franklin Everett ShawThe sun beats down relentlessly, turning asphalt into frying pans and pushing even the most dedicated outdoor enthusiasts indoors. But for those of us in Las Vegas, this isn’t just a seasonal inconvenience; it’s a lifestyle shift that can impact both our wallets and our waistlines. We crank up the AC, hunker down, and often, pack on a few extra pounds.
This article will explore how residents in Las Vegas and other desert cities can utilize “Vegas Trackers” (like smart thermostats and energy monitors) to optimize their AC usage and minimize the common summer weight gain often linked to increased sedentary behavior indoors, focusing on practical tips and local resources for energy efficiency and fitness options in the Nevada climate.
The key is to use technology to our advantage, turning potential pitfalls into opportunities for savings and self-improvement.
First, let’s tackle the energy hog: your air conditioner. Setting it and forgetting it is a recipe for a sky-high power bill.
Instead, consider a smart thermostat like the Nest or Ecobee. These devices learn your habits and adjust the temperature accordingly.
For example, if you’re at work from 9 AM to 5 PM, the thermostat can automatically raise the temperature a few degrees, saving energy without sacrificing comfort when you’re actually home.
But here’s where the “Vegas Tracker” concept comes into play: integrate your thermostat with your fitness routine.
Let’s say you plan to hit the gym at 6 PM. Program your thermostat to start cooling the house down around 5:30 PM, so it’s comfortable when you return.
This not only saves energy but also provides an incentive to stick to your workout schedule.
Many residents make the mistake of setting their thermostats too low, thinking it will cool the house faster. This is a myth.
Your AC works at a constant rate; setting it to 65 degrees when you really want 72 won’t make it cool down any quicker, but it will make it run longer and waste energy.
A more effective strategy is to use ceiling fans in conjunction with your AC. Fans circulate the air, making you feel cooler even at a higher temperature.
Consider NV Energy’s Time-of-Use (TOU) rate plans. These plans charge different rates for electricity depending on the time of day.
Typically, peak hours are during the afternoon and early evening when everyone is using their AC.
By shifting your energy usage to off-peak hours, you can significantly reduce your bill.
This means running your dishwasher, washing machine, and even pre-cooling your house before peak hours begin.
Smart energy monitors, like the Sense or Curb, can provide detailed insights into your energy consumption.
These devices track how much electricity each appliance in your home is using, allowing you to identify energy vampires and make informed decisions about your usage.
For instance, you might discover that your old refrigerator is consuming a disproportionate amount of energy and decide to replace it with a more efficient model.
Now, let’s address the “summer bloat” phenomenon. The allure of staying indoors in the cool AC can lead to a more sedentary lifestyle.
Combat this by scheduling regular physical activity.
Las Vegas offers a variety of indoor fitness options, from gyms and yoga studios to rock climbing facilities and indoor swimming pools.
Consider joining a gym like EoS Fitness or Lifetime Athletic, which offer a wide range of classes and equipment.
Or, explore community centers like the Doolittle Community Center, which often have affordable fitness programs.
But the key is to integrate your fitness routine with your “Vegas Trackers.”
Use a fitness tracker like a Fitbit or Apple Watch to monitor your activity levels and set daily goals.
Challenge yourself to meet a certain number of steps each day, even if it means walking around your house or apartment.
Many people fall into the trap of thinking that exercise has to be intense to be effective. This isn’t true.
Even moderate physical activity, like a brisk walk or a light jog, can have significant health benefits.
Consider using your lunch break to take a walk around your neighborhood or a nearby park.
Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area offers stunning hiking trails, but be sure to go early in the morning or late in the evening to avoid the extreme heat.
Another common mistake is neglecting hydration. Dehydration can lead to fatigue, headaches, and even heatstroke.
Carry a water bottle with you at all times and drink plenty of water throughout the day.
Consider adding electrolytes to your water, especially if you’re exercising.
Leverage the data from your “Vegas Trackers” to understand the connection between your AC usage, activity levels, and weight.
Track your energy consumption, steps taken, and weight over time.
Look for patterns and correlations.
For example, you might notice that you tend to gain weight on days when you spend more time indoors and use more AC.
Use this information to make adjustments to your lifestyle.
Perhaps you need to schedule more outdoor activities or find ways to be more active indoors.
Don’t underestimate the power of small changes.
Taking the stairs instead of the elevator, parking further away from the entrance to the store, or doing a few stretches during commercial breaks can all add up over time.
Remember, the goal is to create a sustainable lifestyle that balances comfort, energy efficiency, and physical well-being.
By using “Vegas Trackers” and making conscious choices about your AC usage and activity levels, you can thrive in the desert heat without breaking the bank or packing on the pounds.
Consider exploring local resources like the Southern Nevada Health District for information on healthy eating and active living.
They offer a variety of programs and services to help residents improve their health and well-being.
Also, check out the Nevada Division of Public and Behavioral Health for resources on mental health and stress management.
The summer heat can be stressful, so it’s important to take care of your mental health as well as your physical health.
Finally, remember that consistency is key.
It takes time to develop new habits, so be patient with yourself and don’t get discouraged if you slip up occasionally.
Just keep making small, positive changes and you’ll eventually reach your goals.
Embrace the challenge of living in the desert and use technology to your advantage.
With a little planning and effort, you can stay cool, save money, and maintain a healthy lifestyle all summer long.