Summer is well underway, but there are still plenty of warm days left to keep your home comfortable and your energy use in check. Whether you're staying in, heading out, or looking to reduce your energy bill, these summer strategies can help you beat the heat.

Stay Cool at Home

Your home can be a refuge from the sun with just a few adjustments.

Take a Dip

Water is one of the fastest ways to cool down. If you don’t have access to a pool, consider visiting a local lake or water park. Or you can keep it simple by soaking your feet in a tub or playing in the sprinkler. Even a quick rinse in cool water can offer instant relief.

Hang Out in Cooler Rooms

Basements naturally stay cooler than the rest of the house, making them the perfect summer hangout. While you're down there, check and replace your furnace filters to boost A/C performance and efficiency.

Reduce Heat-Generating Habits

Try limiting your use of appliances that warm up your space. Skip the oven in favor of cold meals, take cool showers, and let your hair and laundry air dry.

Smart plumbing tools can also help you stay cool and save water:

  • Smart showerheads get you to your preferred temperature faster.
  • Smart faucets stop automatically when containers are full.
  • Smart leak detectors catch water leaks before they turn into problems (or make your home warmer).

Maximize Cooling Efficiency

Switch to A/C When It Counts

Fans can help in warm weather, but when temperatures climb into the 90s, air conditioning becomes much more important. Keep your A/C system in good shape to make sure it’s ready when you need it most. 

Be Strategic with Windows

If mornings and evenings are cooler, open your windows briefly to circulate fresh air. Once the heat returns, close them up and check for drafts that may be letting hot air in.

Run a DIY Energy Audit

Still noticing high bills despite your efforts? A simple energy audit might reveal problem areas you can fix, such as poor insulation or outdated appliances.

Take Care in the Sun

Too much sun can sneak up on you. Keep these tips in mind to avoid heat-related illness:

  • Stay hydrated with water, juice, or sports drinks.
  • Wear light-colored, loose-fitting clothing.
  • Check local heat advisories or the National Weather Service HeatRisk tool before heading outdoors.
  • Take frequent breaks while working or playing outside.

The CDC offers additional guidelines on recognizing signs of heat-related illness and staying safe in extreme temperatures.

Call 800.648.5006 or visit APHW.com with any questions.