Do you ever feel like your house turns into an oven during summer? With rising temperatures, especially in places like Bellingham, WA, staying cool can become a daily challenge. You may find yourself relying on fans and ACs around the clock, which can make energy bills skyrocket. But the good news is that there are ways to beat the heat without losing comfort or overspending. Simple steps can make a big difference, whether you’re dealing with a small apartment or a larger family home.
In this blog, we will share practical ways to keep your home cool when summer temperatures are at their worst.
Keep Blinds and Curtains Closed During the Day
Sunlight pouring through windows may seem pleasant, but it quickly heats up your home. Direct sunlight increases indoor temperatures, especially in rooms with large or multiple windows. To prevent this, keep your blinds and curtains closed during the hottest parts of the day. Doing this helps block out the sun and keeps the heat outside. Even light-colored curtains can reflect sunlight and reduce heat buildup inside your house.
You can also consider thermal shades or blackout curtains for added protection. These options not only block the sun but also act as insulation barriers. If you need some daylight, try opening curtains in the early morning or evening when it’s cooler. Keeping sunlight out during peak hours makes it easier for your fans or AC to cool the home. This simple habit helps maintain a comfortable indoor temperature without using more energy.
Stay on Top of AC Maintenance
Your air conditioning system works hard during the summer. Without proper care, it may stop running efficiently when you need it most. Clean or replace filters regularly to improve airflow. Dirty filters make your AC work harder, which increases your energy bills. Also, check your unit for signs of damage or leaks. A system in poor condition will struggle to cool your home and can lead to bigger problems over time.
Knowing when to schedule AC maintenance in Bellingham, WA, is key to keeping things running smoothly. Early spring is usually a good time to book a service before the hot months arrive. That way, you can catch small issues before they become major repairs. Local technicians can help make sure your unit is clean and working at full strength. Preventive care saves you money and keeps your home cool when you need it most.
Seal Air Leaks Around Doors and Windows
When cool air escapes through gaps around windows and doors, it forces your cooling system to work harder. Sealing these leaks helps keep cool air in and hot air out. Use weather stripping or caulking to seal cracks and openings. You can also use door draft stoppers to prevent air from slipping through the bottom of doors. This small step can make a big impact on your home’s comfort.
Check every room for drafts, especially in older homes where materials may have worn down over time. If you can feel air movement near a closed window or door, it’s time to seal it. Doing this also improves energy efficiency, which can lower your bills. The goal is to keep the inside cool without extra work from your AC. It’s a simple task but one that creates lasting results all summer long.
Use Fans the Right Way
Fans help move air around, but they don’t lower the temperature. However, they do help your body feel cooler by moving heat away from your skin. Place fans in windows during cooler hours to bring fresh air in. During hotter times, set them to push hot air out. Ceiling fans should rotate counterclockwise in the summer to create a breeze that cools the room.
Using fans with your AC can make your cooling system more effective. Fans circulate the cool air, so your AC doesn’t have to run as often. You can also try placing a bowl of ice in front of a box fan for a quick cooling effect. While fans don’t change room temperature, they make the environment feel much better. With smart use, fans can cut down on energy use while still keeping you cool.
Cook Outdoors or Use Small Appliances
Cooking indoors adds a lot of heat to your home, especially when using ovens or stoves. During the hottest months, try grilling outdoors instead. If you don’t have access to a grill, use small kitchen appliances like microwaves, air fryers, or slow cookers. These create much less heat than your full-sized oven. The less heat you add inside, the easier it is to keep your home cool.
Even switching your cooking time to earlier in the day can help. Morning and late evening are typically cooler, so your kitchen won’t heat up as much. Also, try preparing cold meals like salads or sandwiches on extremely hot days. Reducing the use of heat-producing appliances makes a noticeable difference. It’s one of the easiest ways to prevent your kitchen from becoming the hottest room in the house.
Switch to Energy-Efficient Lighting
Traditional light bulbs, especially incandescent ones, produce a lot of heat. Switching to LED bulbs helps keep your home cooler. LEDs use less energy and give off very little heat. They also last longer, so you won’t need to replace them often. Making this small change improves both temperature control and energy savings.
Turn off lights when not in use. During daylight hours, rely on natural light, especially in shaded rooms. Overhead lights can heat up a space, especially when combined with hot outdoor temperatures. By switching your lighting and using it only when needed, you create a cooler environment with little effort. It’s a simple upgrade that supports your overall cooling efforts.
In conclusion, keeping your home cool during the hottest months doesn’t require major renovations. A few smart changes, combined with good habits, can go a long way. By blocking out the sun, using fans effectively, and maintaining your cooling systems, you create a comfortable space even when temperatures rise. These steps don’t just lower indoor heat—they also reduce energy use and help you save money.
