Summer heat can make your home uncomfortable fast, and cranking up the air conditioning all day can lead to an expensive electric bill. The good news is there are plenty of simple ways to keep your house cool in the summer while saving energy and lowering cooling costs.
Whether you’re a homeowner in Philadelphia, the surrounding suburbs, or South Jersey, these easy summer home tips can help you stay comfortable without sending your energy bill through the roof.
Keep the Sun Out During the Hottest Hours
Direct sunlight can heat up your home quickly, especially during the afternoon. Close blinds, shades, or curtains during the hottest parts of the day, particularly on windows that receive direct sunlight.
Blackout curtains, solar shades, and insulated window treatments can provide even more protection from summer heat and help your home stay cooler naturally.
Use Ceiling Fans the Right Way
Ceiling fans use significantly less energy than air conditioning and can help your home feel more comfortable.
During the summer, make sure your ceiling fan is rotating counterclockwise. This pushes air downward and creates a cooling breeze.
Remember to turn fans off when you leave a room since fans cool people rather than the room itself.
Let Cooler Air In at Night
When temperatures drop in the evening, consider opening your windows and letting fresh air circulate through your home.
In the morning, close the windows, blinds, and curtains before outdoor temperatures begin rising. This can help keep cooler air inside for longer.
Adjust Your Thermostat
You don’t need to keep your home freezing all day to stay comfortable.
A programmable or smart thermostat can automatically adjust your home’s temperature when you’re sleeping, working, or away from home. Raising the temperature a few degrees when no one is home can help reduce your summer energy usage and lower your electric bill.
Avoid Creating Extra Heat Inside
Your oven, stove, dishwasher, and dryer can all add heat to your home.
On particularly hot summer days, consider grilling outside or using smaller appliances like an air fryer or slow cooker. Running your dishwasher and dryer during the evening can also help prevent your home from heating up during the hottest part of the day.
Plus, summer is the perfect excuse for easy dinners that don’t require turning on the oven!
Keep Your Air Conditioner Running Efficiently
Regular HVAC maintenance can help your air conditioner cool your home more efficiently.
Check your HVAC filter regularly and replace it according to your system’s recommendations. You should also keep outdoor AC units clear of leaves, plants, and other debris so air can circulate properly.
An efficiently running air conditioner doesn’t have to work as hard to keep your home comfortable.
Keep Cool Air From Escaping
Small gaps around windows and exterior doors can allow cool air to escape while letting hot outdoor air inside.
Weatherstripping and caulk are relatively inexpensive DIY home improvements that can help seal these gaps. They can also improve your home’s energy efficiency throughout the year.
Turn Off Lights and Electronics
Lights and electronics produce heat, even if it doesn’t seem like much.
Turn off unnecessary lights and electronics when you’re not using them. Switching to LED light bulbs can also help since LEDs use less energy and produce less heat than traditional incandescent bulbs.
Keep Your Home Cool and Your Energy Bill Down
Keeping your house cool during the summer doesn’t have to mean running your air conditioner nonstop. Small changes like blocking afternoon sunlight, using ceiling fans, adjusting your thermostat, limiting indoor heat, and sealing windows and doors can make a noticeable difference.
A cooler, more energy efficient home is good for your comfort and your wallet.
Thinking about buying, selling, or making improvements to your home? Home Sweet Home PHL is here to help you make the most of your home in Philadelphia, the surrounding suburbs, and South Jersey.
