Hotter days aren’t far ahead, so now’s the perfect time to get ahead of the summer heat. A few simple DIY projects— sealing air leaks, adding ventilation and shading, and switching to energy-efficient upgrades—will make your home more comfortable while reducing your energy costs.
Stay cool all summer long without overworking your air conditioning system with these DIY projects to prepare your home for hot weather.
1. Seal and Insulate for Maximum Efficiency
One of the easiest and most cost-efficient ways to keep your home cool is to prevent warm air from sneaking in and cool air from escaping.
• Weatherstrip Doors and Windows: A tight seal keeps cool air inside and blocks hot drafts. Inspect the seals around your doors and windows and replace any worn weatherstripping. Not sure how? This video breaks it down:
• Caulk Air Leaks: Check for gaps or cracks around window frames, baseboards, and electrical outlets. Use a high-quality caulk to seal these leaks and make your home more airtight.
• Upgrade Attic Insulation: Proper insulation in your attic can reduce heat transfer and keep your living spaces cooler. This guide highlights all the problem areas in your attic, with tips to fix them.
2. Install a Programmable or Smart Thermostat
If you haven’t already upgraded to a smart thermostat, what are you waiting for? A smart thermostat will optimize your cooling schedule, raising the temperature when you're away and cooling it down before you return, so you save on electricity costs while staying comfortable.
3. Use Window Treatments to Block Heat
Windows are a major source of heat gain in the summer, but you can make small changes that significantly reduce the amount of heat entering your home.
• Hang Thermal Curtains: Designed with heat-blocking materials, these curtains keep rooms cooler.
• Use Exterior Awnings or Shades: Adding awnings or solar screens will shade windows to cut down on heat absorption.
4. Improve Ventilation with Ceiling and Attic Fans
Good airflow is essential for keeping your home cool.
• Check Ceiling Fans: Ceiling fans create a wind-chill effect, making you feel cooler without lowering the temperature. Make sure your fans are set to rotate counterclockwise so they push cool air down and into your room.
• Install Air Deflectors: Adding heat and air deflectors that direct air up to vents will cool your entire room more evenly and efficiently. Watch this video to learn how they work:
• Cross-Ventilate Your Home: Create natural airflow and cool your home with natural breezes by opening windows on opposite sides of your home during cooler parts of the day.
5. Upgrade to Energy-Efficient Lighting and Appliances
Incandescent bulbs give off a lot of heat. Switching to LED bulbs reduces heat generation and saves energy.
• Replace Heat-Generating Bulbs: LED bulbs use up to 75% less energy and last longer than traditional bulbs.
• Upgrade to Energy Star Appliances: When you’re replacing appliances, choose models with an Energy Star rating to reduce heat output and energy use.
• Unplug Unused Electronics: Leaving devices plugged in all the time generates residual heat and consumes unnecessary power. Consider unplugging items like small kitchen appliances, TVs and video game consoles, computers, and chargers when you’re not using them.
6. Strategic Landscaping for Natural Cooling
Planting shade trees and greenery around your home doesn’t just boost curb appeal, it can naturally lower the temperature inside.
• Plant Deciduous Trees: Trees that lose their leaves in winter provide shade in summer but don’t block sunlight during the colder months.
• Install Trellises with Climbing Plants: Vines like clematis or wisteria can create a natural shade barrier for walls and windows.
• Use Mulch to Reduce Heat Absorption: Mulching around your home’s foundation helps regulate soil temperature and can reduce reflected heat that makes your rooms warmer.
7. Switch to Breathable Bedding and Fabrics
Your home isn’t the only thing that needs cooling—choosing the right materials for your bedding and upholstery can help keep you comfortable, too.
• Make Your Bed with Cotton Percale or Linen Sheets: These natural fibers are more breathable than synthetic materials.
• Use Cooling Mattress Pads and Pillows: Gel-infused or breathable materials help wick away heat as you sleep.
• Opt for Lightweight Curtains: Swap out heavy drapes for sheer or linen curtains to improve airflow.
