2010 on pace to be the hottest on record

If the temperature has appeared to be higher than normal, even for summer, that's because it has been. According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), last month's average temperature made it the warmest June ever. Going back even farther, the January to June period of this year ranks behind only 2007 in terms of average heat.

The NOAA reported that the combined global land and ocean temperature in June was an average of 61.1 degrees, 1.22 degrees higher than the 20th century average.

With 2010 on pace to be a record setting year, homeowners should take every step to ensure that their dwelling is as comfortable as possible, even as the number on the thermostat climbs. Although it may seem like there is no respite from the heat, experts at AnnArbor.com suggest there are a number of options at one's disposal.

Faux wood blinds are a good choice for those who want to insulate their homes, and do a fantastic job at effectively reducing solar heat. Faux wood blinds can also save homeowners money because their insulating and heat-reduction capabilities make it less necessary to turn on the air conditioning.