With temperatures heating up, keeping your house cooled off can be a challenge. You, of course, can run your air conditioning, but that means a higher electric bill. However, there are ways to keep your home cool without cranking the AC up and having it run nonstop. Here are a few tips to help.

Keep Window Coverings Closed

We love natural light as much as the next person, but according to Family Handyman, up to 30 percent of unwanted heat comes from your windows. Blocking that heat with blinds or curtains can lower indoor temperatures by as much as 20 degrees, which translates into utility savings of up to 7 percent. South- and west-facing windows, in particular, let in a lot of heat. If you want to open some windows for light, try to open north- and east-facing ones. For the ultimate cooling and cost savings, blackout curtains work best. For blinds, select lighter colors that will reflect the heat rather than absorb it.

Apply Heat Resistant Film

Another option to help block heat from coming in windows is a heat-resistant film. It’s quick and easy to install, and as a bonus, it also helps keep heat in during the winter months.

Use Doors Wisely

The more space you are trying to cool, the harder it is to do so (and the longer your AC needs to run). If there are rooms you are not using, shut the doors to those areas during the hottest parts of the day. At night when it cools down, be sure to open all doors so air can circulate more freely and your house can cool.

Use Exhaust Fans

Whether it’s the one in your bathroom or the one in your kitchen, exhaust fans are designed to pull hot air out of your house or apartment. You should use them any time you shower or when you cook to keep the temperature down.

Install A Ceiling Fan

Moving air will always feel cooler than stagnant air, so installing a ceiling fan (or using other fans) can work wonders to keep you cool. In summer months, make sure the ceiling fan is running counterclockwise to draw the cooler air up. You will want to reverse it in winter to draw warmer air down.

Open Windows At Night

Temperatures cool once the sun goes down, so take advantage of that. Open windows before going to bed to let that cooler air in. Combined with a fan, this is often enough to keep you cool overnight.

Do Laundry And Other Chores At Night

Did you know many appliances put off a lot of heat when in use? Washers, dryers, and dishwashers all put off a lot of heat, so try and do laundry, dishes, and other such chores at night or early morning when it’s not as hot.

Install A Programmable or Smart Thermostat

There’s no need to cool your home all the way when you are not there. Installing a Programmable or Smart Thermostat can help with ensuring your air conditioner is not running needlessly when you are at work, school, and so forth. The recommended temperature for when you are outside the house is 78 degrees, and 75 degrees is recommended when you are home. Research shows people sleep better in cooler temperatures, so you will want to program your thermostat down at night. Experiment with the temperature that feels best for you.

Change Your AC Filter Regularly

Filters should be changed at a minimum every 3 months, but with heavier usage, you may want to change them more often. Not only does it help with air quality, but changing the filter also makes your AC work better and more efficiently.

Plant Trees And Other Foliage

Planting trees, bushes, and other plants near your home can create shade and block some of the heat coming into your house (plus it looks great!).

Grill More

It’s no secret your stove and oven can put off a lot of heat, so take it outdoors! There are so many options for grilling just about anything, from meats and veggies to pizza. Plus, grilled food just tastes great, so not only do you reduce heat indoors, but you get that benefit too!

Looking for your dream home? Liberty Homes has been building new homes in Utah for more than 25 years. We take pride in our trade, crafting each home as if it were our own. Our quality, affordable homes are energy smart and thoughtfully personalized for your active Utah lifestyle. We currently have new single-family homes available in Bluffdale and West Valley. Contact us today to get started building your new home.