Close Your Blinds
As simple as this tip may seem, a vast majority of unwanted heat comes from your windows. Using shades and curtains can lower indoor temperatures a few degrees allowing your air conditioning to not work so hard. In other words, closing the blinds essentially prevents your home from becoming a miniature greenhouse, which is especially the case with south- and west-facing windows.
Close Doors
Closing off unused rooms will prevent cool air from spreading through these areas during the hot parts of the day. On cooler nights, open up doors to let air flow naturally throughout your home to create air flow.
Change Your Fan’s Direction
You may not realize that your ceiling fan needs to be adjusted seasonally. Set to run counter-clockwise in the summer at a higher speed, the fan’s airflow will create a wind-chill breeze effect that will make you feel cooler.
Try to Cook Outdoors
Using your stove in the summer months will make your home hotter. Instead of firing up your stove, try using a hot plate, toaster oven, or grill outside. Keep the heat outside and out of your house!
Plant Shade Trees
A well-placed tree can make a world of difference for the comfort of your home. Planting a tree likely won’t have immediate payoffs, but it’s a great way to both shade your home and add color and beauty to your property. In the long-term, a shade tree can cover parts of your home and keep the temperature down during the day.