Curious about the Amish secret to staying cool in the scorching summer heat? You’re not alone! In this article, we’ll uncover the ingenious ways these folks beat the heat without modern gadgets.
How Do the Amish Stay Cool in Summer?
Amish communities primarily live in areas with moderate summer temperatures, rarely exceeding 90°F, making air conditioning rarely necessary. For example, the average summer temperature in Pennsylvania, typically ranges from the mid-70s to low 80s Fahrenheit.
Amish homes are designed to maximize airflow and coolness. They have many large windows to allow for air circulation. The Amish open these windows during cooler summer nights to let in the fresh air and close them during the day to keep the heat out.
Many Amish homes use their basements as a cool retreat during the hottest parts of the day. Basements naturally maintain a cooler temperature and become a common space for activities like dining or playing games.
Amish homes are often built with materials like concrete floors, which help in keeping the house cool.
Additionally, they are usually positioned to avoid long afternoon sun exposure and are surrounded by landscaping and trees for shade.
Many Amish homes include summer kitchens, which are used for cooking during warmer months to keep the heat out of the main living quarters. Cooking outdoors during summertime is quite common.
To avoid the heat, Amish individuals begin their daily chores very early in the morning, around 4 or 5 am, working during the cooler hours of the day. By completing their tasks by 11 am or noon, they can avoid working during the hottest part of the day.
Activities like swimming in ponds or creeks and relaxing under big trees are common ways to stay cool.
Food Preservation Techniques in Summertime
In terms of food preservation, without relying on electric refrigeration, the Amish use several traditional methods. For example, they use naturally cool streams running under their houses to keep food fresh.
Others use ice houses. These are insulated basements or cellars where ice is stored to keep food cool throughout the year.
In some Amish communities, gas-powered or solar-powered refrigerators are used.
Preserving food through canning is a common practice, allowing them to store food for longer periods without refrigeration.