Summer is a season of fun in the sun, but it can also bring unbearable heat inside of your home. There are several ways to beat the heat without sacrificing on comfort and style. Here, we have compiled a list of proven and efficient ways to keep your home cool and reduce your energy bills. Whether you are looking for quick fixes or long-term solutions, these tips will help you create a more comfortable living space and enjoy the summer without sweating it out.

1. Use Ceiling Fans:

One of the easiest and most affordable ways to cool your home is by using ceiling fans. Fans allow air to circulate throughout your house, creating a gentle breeze that lowers the temperature you feel and makes a significant difference. You can use a fan in combination with your air conditioning system, or on its own to reduce the workload on your AC unit and save energy. Make sure to set your fans to rotate counter-clockwise, so they can push the cooler air down.

2. Seal Gaps and Eliminate Drafts:

Gaps and drafts in your windows and doors are responsible for up to 30% of your home’s energy loss and can lead to hot air entering your home and cool air escaping. This makes it difficult to maintain a comfortable temperature, and it can also strain your AC unit and increase your energy bills. To prevent this, you can use weatherstripping, caulk or foam to seal any gaps or drafty areas around your windows and doors. This will help keep your home cool and reduce energy waste.

3. Choose LED Light Bulbs:

LED light bulbs are not only a great way to save energy and lower your bills, but they also emit less heat than traditional incandescent or halogen lights. This means that your home will stay cooler, and your AC unit won’t have to work as hard to keep you comfortable. Consider swapping out your old bulbs for LED ones to make a meaningful difference in your home’s temperature.

4. Avoid Using the Oven During the Hot Part of the Day:

One of the simplest ways to reduce the amount of heat in your home is by avoiding using the oven or stove during the hottest parts of the day. Cooking appliances generate a lot of heat and turning them on during peak sun hours will only add to the warmth in your home. Instead, try to cook meals early in the morning or late in the evening when it is cooler. If you must cook during the day, consider using a slow cooker or barbecue outside.

5. Plant Trees to Shade Your Home:

Trees are a natural source of shade and can block up to 90% of the sun’s heat before it reaches your home. Planting trees strategically around your property can help reduce the amount of heat entering your home and lower your AC usage. Trees also provide an added bonus of improving air quality and making your home more visually appealing. Be sure to plant trees that are suitable for your climate and won’t cause damage to your home.

6. Invest in Residential Window Films:

Residential window films are a long-term solution to improving your home’s energy efficiency and keeping it cool. Window films work by blocking harmful UV rays, reducing glare and preventing heat from entering your home. They also provide added privacy and security and help preserve your furnishings and flooring from fading. With window films, you can enjoy a cooler home without sacrificing on light or views.

Beat the heat this summer with these hot tips! Following these tips will help you create a more comfortable living environment, reduce your energy bills and improve the overall efficiency and safety of your home. Carolina Solar Control of Raleigh, NC and surrounding areas can help you choose the best window films for your home and ensure a professional installation that meets your needs and budget. Contact us today to learn more.