Keep Cool During the Warm Summer Months: Helpful Tips & More
By Thomas Terry, SameDay Heating & Air
Summer heat can sneak up fast; once it’s here, it often overstays its welcome. When temperatures rise, it’s tempting to crank the AC. But running it all day is expensive and inefficient. The good news? There are smarter ways to keep your home and body cool. Below, we’ll cover some simple and effective tips to keep you comfy during the year’s hottest months.
Smart Ways to Keep Your Home Cool Without Constant AC Use
You don’t always rely on air conditioning to beat the heat. A few easy, low-cost changes around the house can keep your home cooler all summer. These tips are simple enough for the whole family to try.
Improve Airflow with Natural Ventilation
One of the easiest ways to cool your home is by using the air outside, especially at night. Open your windows in the evening to let cooler air in. Then, close them in the morning to trap the air inside. Try opening windows on doors on opposite sides of your home to create cross-ventilation. This lets air flow freely through your space. Keeping interior doors open also allows the air to move from room to room, giving your home a fresh and breezy feel.
Make the Most of Ceiling and Portable Fans
Fans don’t cool the air, but they do move it around. That movement makes your home feel cooler, even when the temperature stays the same. Place portable fans around your space to eliminate hot spots and push warm air out. Ceiling fans are even better when used with open windows on your air conditioner. They maintain a consistent temperature throughout the room. Turn off the fans when you leave the room to save energy.
Keep Sunlight and Heat Out
Sunlight brings in a lot of heat. Keep blinds or curtains closed during the hottest parts of the day, especially on windows that face the sun. This blocks out heat and makes a big difference in indoor temperatures. For even better results, try blackout curtains or heat-reflective blinds. These are great at keeping rooms cooler, even when the sun is blazing.
Reduce Heat from Appliances and Lighting
Appliances and lights give off more heat than you might think. Try to run your dishwasher, oven, or laundry machine early in the morning or later in the evening when it’s cooler outside. During the day, go for no-cook meals like salads or grill outdoors instead. Also, consider switching to LED bulbs. They stay cool and use less energy than traditional lighting.
Save on AC Costs While Staying Comfortable
Running your air conditioner doesn’t have to mean sky-high energy bills. With a few easy changes, you can stay cool and save money. These tips will help you use your AC more efficiently while keeping your home comfortable all summer.
Use Smart Thermostat Settings for Energy Savings
You can save energy by setting your thermostat to around 75°F when you’re home. If you’re leaving the house, turn it up a few degrees or turn it off. A programmable or smart thermostat makes this easy by adjusting the temperature for you automatically. You can even set it to start cooling before you get home. Over time, try slowly raising your thermostat setting. Your body will get used to it, and you’ll use less energy to stay cool.
Insulate and Seal Your Home for Better Temperature Control
Keeping the cool air in and hot air starts with good insulation and sealing. Make sure windows and doors close tightly. Use weather stripping or door sweeps to close gaps if you feel a draft. Adding insulation in your attic or walls also helps your home stay cooler for longer. These upgrades don’t just help during the summer. They also warm your home in the winter, which means year-round savings.
Keep Your Air Conditioner Running Efficiently
A well-maintained air conditioner works better and uses less energy. Change your air filters about once a month during heavy use to keep air flowing freely. Schedule seasonal tune-ups with a professional to catch small problems before they become expensive repairs. Don’t block vents with furniture or rugs; avoid turning the AC way down to cool rooms faster. It works best when it cools steadily.
Manage Humidity Levels for a Cooler Home
Sometimes, it’s not just the heat that makes you uncomfortable. It’s the humidity. High moisture in the air makes your home feel warmer than it really is. A dehumidifier removes that extra moisture and makes your space feel cooler and more comfortable. Use exhaust fans in bathrooms and kitchens to reduce indoor humidity. Keeping the air drier means your AC won’t have to work as hard, and you’ll feel better, too.
Personal Cooling Strategies to Beat the Heat
Keeping your body cool is just as important as cooling your home. These easy tips will help you stay comfortable no matter where you are, whether you’re relaxing at home, heading outside, or trying to sleep during a hot night.
Stay Hydrated and Eat Cooling Foods
Drinking enough water is one of the best ways to stay cool. Try to sip throughout the day, even if you’re not feeling thirsty. Add a slice of lemon, lime, or a few mint leaves for a refreshing twist. Eating light, water-rich foods like cucumbers, watermelons, and leafy greens also keep your body hydrated. On really hot days, avoid heavy or spicy meals. They raise your body temperature and make you feel even warmer.
Dress for the Weather and Cool Down Your Bedding
What you wear makes a big difference in how you feel. Choose light, breathable fabrics like cotton or moisture-wicking materials to help you stay cool. At night, switch out heavy blankets for light sheets, and look for cooling pillowcases or mattress covers. Want a fun trick? Pop your sheets or pillowcases in the freezer for a few minutes before bed. It may sound silly, but it makes falling asleep in the heat much more bearable.
Use Cold Therapy to Lower Body Temperature
Cooling your body from the outside can help you feel better fast. Place a cold washcloth, ice pack, or cooling towel on pulse points like your wrists, neck, or behind your knees. These spots lower body temperature quickly. Taking a cool shower or even just splashing water on your face and arms can also give you quick relief. A chilled gel eye mask is another simple way to cool off during the hottest parts of the day.
Find Cooler Places to Escape the Heat
When it’s just too hot at home, find a place with air conditioning to cool down. Public spots like libraries, shopping centers, or community centers are great options. If you’re staying home, spend time in naturally cooler areas like your basement. Outside, you can make your own shade using an umbrella, pop-up canopy, or a tree if you’ve got one. Even just moving to a breezier spot can help you feel more comfortable during a heatwave.
Stay Cool & Keep Your AC Running Strong All Summer
Summer heat doesn’t have to affect your comfort or your energy bills. These smart habits and easy upgrades can keep your home cool and your AC working efficiently.
- Use passive cooling like curtains, fans, and ventilation.
- Run heat-producing appliances during cooler times of day.
- Install a smart thermostat and schedule regular AC tune-ups.
- Stay personally cool with hydration, light clothing, and cool-down tricks.
Need help upgrading your system or scheduling maintenance? Call SameDay Heating & Air for expert cooling services and smart home solutions!
