How to Cool Down a House Without AC

How to Cool a House Without AC 

Keeping your entire home cool during hot weather can feel like a challenge—especially without air conditioning. Here are the most practical and effective ways for how to keep house cool without AC, so your living space stays comfortable, energy-efficient, and heat-resilient all summer long: 

Set Your Ceiling Fans to Rotate Counterclockwise 

One of the most effective yet often overlooked ways to improve comfort during summer is by adjusting your ceiling fan’s direction. Setting it to rotate counterclockwise helps create a wind-chill effect that makes the room feel cooler—without actually lowering the temperature. This simple change lets you bump up the thermostat and still stay comfortable. Here’s how you properly set the fan’s direction during summer & winter: 

1. Make sure your ceiling is at least eight feet high for safe fan operation. 
2. Turn off the fan and locate the direction switch on the motor housing. 
3. Flip the switch so the fan spins counterclockwise in summer (you should feel a breeze standing underneath). And that’s it, it’s that simple! 
4. Be sure to always refer to the manufacturer’s instructions for proper setup and safety. 

Setting your ceiling fan to rotate in the wrong direction can actually work against your cooling efforts, making the room feel warmer by disrupting airflow and pushing warm air downward.  

On the other hand, when your fan is set to rotate counterclockwise, it creates a cooling breeze that enhances comfort and allows you to raise the thermostat without sacrificing relief. This small, no-cost adjustment is a simple but effective part of any strategy for how to keep house cool without AC, whether you live in a home or an apartment. 

Tip: When shopping for a new ceiling fan, choose one with an easy-to-reach direction switch so seasonal adjustments are quick and hassle-free. 

Install a Whole-House Fan 

Installing a whole-house fan is a highly effective solution to pull hot air out of your living space and draw in cooler outdoor air through open windows. Whole-house fans also help improve ventilation and indoor air quality while using significantly less energy than traditional air conditioning systems. 

If you’re looking to find the perfect whole-house fan for your home, consider consulting a professional to ensure the fan is properly sized and installed for your home. Once you’ve found your appliance, run the fan during cooler parts of the day (morning or evening) with multiple windows open for best results. Be sure to keep interior doors open to allow airflow to move freely throughout your home. 

Without proper ventilation, heat can accumulate indoors, leading to discomfort and increased cooling costs. This system provides a smart, affordable solution and can reduce your reliance on central air and lead to noticeable energy savings too.  The installation cost of a whole-house fan varies, so it’s recommended you consult local professionals for estimates.   

Tip: For added efficiency, choose a fan with insulated louvers to prevent heat loss during colder months. 

 Flush Out Hot Air in the Evening 

When the sun sets and outdoor temperatures begin to drop, your home has a golden opportunity to cool down naturally. Letting the cool air flow in overnight not only makes sleeping more comfortable but also reduces the workload on your cooling system the next day making for the perfect tip for how to keep your house cool with ac. 

To do this open multiple windows in the evening and leave them open overnight to let cooler air circulate. For extra comfort, use window fans or box fans to boost airflow—position inward-facing fans on the cooler/shaded side of your home and outward-facing ones on the warmer side. Lastly, close windows before sunrise to trap the cool air inside for the day ahead. 

Tip: Combine this technique with cooling curtains or blackout shades during the day to lock in the cooler air and prevent heat from creeping back in. 

Close Your Window Coverings During the Day 

Sun-facing windows allow intense solar radiation to pour in, quickly turning your home into a heat trap. By blocking that sunlight with the right coverings, you’re preventing heat from building up in the first place—which makes a huge difference when figuring out how to keep house cool without AC. 

Windows are responsible for up to 76% of sunlight that turns into indoor heat, according to Energy.gov. If you leave them uncovered during peak hours, your home can heat up quickly, undoing any cooling progress made overnight. According to the Consumer Reports, using medium-colored curtains with white backings can reduce heat gain by up to 33%. In some cases, high-performance window coverings like cellular shades or thermal curtains can cut heat gain by up to 77%. 

Be sure to close coverings before sunlight hits the windows and keeps them shut through late afternoon and focus on east-facing windows in the morning and west-facing windows in the afternoon for best results. 

Tip: For maximum impact, choose curtains with a white or reflective backing to bounce sunlight away from your home while still maintaining a stylish interior. 

Create a Crosswind with Multiple Fans 

Creating a crosswind with multiple fans can push out warm air and pull in cooler air—especially during early morning or late evening. Most fans use just 20 to 70 watts, making them far more energy-efficient than AC, and with prices between $20 and $100 depending on your electricity rate, it’s an affordable way to boost comfort. 

Here’s how you create a crosswind with multiple fans: 

1. Place one fan facing inward near a shady or cooler window to draw cool air inside. 
2. Position another fan on the opposite side of the room or home, facing outward, to push hot air out. 
3. Keep interior doors open to allow air to move freely between rooms and promote continuous airflow. 

If you don’t establish this kind of airflow, indoor air becomes stagnant, causing hot spots and discomfort that are hard to escape—especially on warm days. Cross-ventilation is a passive cooling technique that significantly enhances airflow and comfort without relying on AC and is a great way to keep your home comfortable if you’re wondering how to cool your house without AC.  

Tip: For best results, choose fans with variable speed settings and oscillation to maximize airflow and control where the cool air goes. 

Install an Exterior Window Shade 

Awnings, solar screens, and outdoor shades block heat before it enters—especially on sun-heavy south- and west-facing windows—reducing indoor temperatures by up to 77%. Installation typically costs $100–$400 per window, but affordable DIY kits are available. With minimal maintenance and excellent energy savings, exterior shading is a smart long-term solution for beating the heat. 

Unlike indoor blinds, exterior shades prevent heat from entering in the first place—giving every other cooling strategy a head start. Without them, intense solar radiation can overheat your space quickly, forcing fans or AC units to work overtime.  

Installing an exterior window shade typically involves mounting retractable or fixed awnings over sun-exposed windows. For extra protection install solar window screens to reflect heat and UV rays and hang outdoor roll-down shades or bamboo blinds on patios or exterior frames for added coverage. 

Tip: Start with your south- and west-facing windows, and choose UV-resistant, retractable shades for long-lasting protection and year-round flexibility. 

Add Outdoor Shade 

Incorporating landscaping elements like trees, shrubs, or pergolas is another way to keep your house cool without AC. Shade from the outside reduces how much heat enters your home, lowering indoor temperatures and easing the burden on fans or other cooling methods. Be sure to plant trees on the south and west sides to block summer sun while letting in winter light and add pergolas or trellises with climbing plants for extra shade. Below is a list of fast-growing trees you could plant at home to give you shade: 

• Sycamore: Large, fast-growing tree with broad leaves and distinctive mottled bark. It provides dense shade and thrives in a variety of soil types. 

• River Birch: Known for its peeling bark and graceful shape, this tree grows quickly and is perfect for wet or poorly drained areas. Great for adding beauty and filtered shade. 

• Bald Cypress: A hardy tree that tolerates both wet and dry conditions. Though often found in swamps, it grows well in yards and offers airy, light shade with soft, feathery foliage. 

• Palo Verde: A desert-native tree with bright green bark and yellow blooms. Fast-growing, drought-tolerant, and perfect for hot, dry climates needing filtered shade. 

• Tulip Tree: Tall and stately with tulip-shaped flowers in spring, this tree grows fast and provides excellent canopy shade—ideal for larger yards. 

Without outdoor shade, your home stays exposed to direct sunlight, making it harder to cool and increasing energy use. In contrast, landscape-based shading is not only functional—it boosts your yard’s appearance and can even enhance your property’s value. 

Tip: For quicker results, plant native, fast-growing trees and combine them with durable pergolas or trellises to create layered shade that evolves beautifully over time. 

 Use Your Cool Basement Air 

Utilize naturally cooler basement air to help regulate your home’s temperature. Hot air rises and cool air falls, so the air in your basement will be inherently cooler, making it a built-in cooling resource during hot days. Redirecting this cooler air into your living spaces is a simple, energy-smart tactic for anyone looking for how to cool off a room without AC. 

To use your cool basement air, open your basement door and place fans to push cool air upward into warmer rooms for extra cooling power. Be sure to keep basement windows closed during the hottest hours of the day to preserve the cool air. 

If you don’t take advantage of your basement’s naturally lower temperatures, you miss out on a free, efficient way to cool upper-level rooms. Doing this reduces your dependence on AC and keeps your space more comfortable—all without raising your energy bill.  

Tip: Make sure your basement stays clean and dry, and wipe down fans regularly to ensure efficient, safe airflow. 

Opt for a Metal or Light-Colored Roof 

Dark roofs can reach up to 150°F under the summer sun, radiating heat into your attic and upper rooms. Your roof acts like a heat magnet, radiating warmth into the attic and upper rooms, which can spike indoor temperatures by 10–20°F.  

Choosing a light-colored or reflective roof—such as white metal, reflective shingles, or coated surfaces—can reduce that heat absorption dramatically. Cool roofs certified by the Cool Roof Rating Council (CRRC) are designed to reflect more sunlight and release absorbed heat, helping lower attic temperatures and improve comfort in the rooms below. 

Reflective roof coatings for existing roofs cost about $100–$500 if done DIY, while a full cool roof installation ranges from $5,000 to $15,000, depending on the size and material. And when it comes to energy efficiency, cool roofs can reduce the surface temperatures by 50°F or more, helping cut cooling costs and reduce strain on HVAC systems and ultimately can cool your house without AC. 

Here’s how to get started: 

1. Choose light-colored asphalt shingles, white metal panels, or apply reflective roof coatings. 
2. For new construction or replacements, select a CRRC-certified cool roof with high solar reflectance and thermal emittance ratings. 
3. Prioritize this upgrade in warmer climates where roof exposure has a greater impact. 

Tip: Maintain your roof’s performance by cleaning it regularly and inspecting for cracks, fading, or peeling to preserve its reflectivity over time. 

Update Your Insulation 

If you’re wondering how to cool your house without AC, insulation is a great place to start. Poor or outdated insulation allows heat to seep into your living spaces, especially through the attic, walls, and crawl spaces. Updating your insulation improves indoor air quality and even boosts your home’s value. Upgrading attic insulation typically costs between $1.50 and $2.45 per square foot, with an average around $1.80, depending on the material. Whether you choose fiberglass batts, cellulose, or spray foam, proper insulation can reduce heating and cooling costs by up to 15%. Inspect insulation every 3–5 years for signs of settling, moisture damage, or pest activity—and replace any that’s been compromised to maintain performance. 

Without proper insulation, rooms heat up quickly and retain that heat longer—even when fans are running. By upgrading your insulation—particularly in the attic, where most heat enters—you can slow heat transfer, maintain consistent indoor temperatures, and make all your other cooling efforts more effective.  

Tip: Pair upgraded insulation with air sealing to prevent hot air from sneaking in through gaps, making your home more efficient overall. 

Weatherize Your Windows and Doors 

If you’re wondering how to keep your house cool without AC, start by sealing the spots where heat sneaks in. Older or drafty windows and doors are some of the biggest culprits when it comes to unwanted heat exchange—letting hot air in and cool air out. By weatherizing these areas, you can maintain a more stable indoor temperature and help your fans or cooling system work far more efficiently. 

According to Energy.gov, up to 25–50% of a home’s energy use can come from air leaks around windows and doors. If you don’t seal them, hot air pours in and makes it harder to keep rooms cool—even with fans or AC. 

Weatherizing your windows and doors typically costs between $15–$100 for DIY kits. Over time, consider investing in Energy Star–rated double- or triple-pane windows ($300–$700 each) or upgrading to insulated exterior doors ($500–$1,200). These upgrades have a high energy efficiency payoff, cutting energy waste significantly and reducing strain on your HVAC system. 

Tip: Start by sealing cracks with insulation film and weatherstripping, use thermal curtains with white backing for heat reflection, and plan to upgrade to Energy Star–rated windows with Low-E coating—checking and resealing as needed each year. 

Use Your Exhaust Fans  

Looking for an easy way to reduce indoor heat and humidity? Your kitchen and bathroom exhaust fans are more powerful than you think. These fans aren’t just for smells—they help pull warm, moist air out of your home, improving airflow and comfort in the process. When used strategically, especially in the early morning or evening, they can noticeably lower the heat and humidity levels in high-use areas like the kitchen and bathroom. 

Installing a new exhaust fan typically costs between $50–$200, with professional installation ranging from $150–$400. The good news? These fans use very little power—around 20 to 40 watts—but can make a big difference when used effectively as part of your passive cooling strategy. 

To use your exhaust fans effectively, run your kitchen exhaust fan while cooking to remove heat from the source. Similarly, turn on the bathroom fan during and after showers to clear out hot, steamy air. Be sure to use both fans during cooler times of the day to help draw out residual heat and moisture. 

Tip: Make sure fans are clean, venting outside, and Energy Star–rated for efficiency—then run them during high heat or humidity to quickly flush out warm air. 

Switch to No-Heat Lightbulbs 

One of the easiest changes you can make when figuring out how to keep your house cool without AC is simply swapping out old lightbulbs. Incandescent bulbs release about 90% of their energy as heat, which means every time you flip the switch, you’re warming the room if you’re still using this type of light bulb in your home. Switching to LED or CFL bulbs is a quick fix that helps reduce both room temperature and your electricity bill—especially during evening hours when lights are used most. 

LED bulbs cost between $2 and $10 each, but they last over 10 years and use up to 80% less energy than incandescent bulbs. Plus, they give off far less heat, making them a smart upgrade for comfort and efficiency. 

If you don’t replace heat-generating bulbs, you’re unknowingly warming up your rooms every evening. For anyone trying to learn how to cool off a room without touching the thermostat, this is one of the fastest, most affordable upgrades you can make. 

Tip: Start with bulbs in small or frequently used rooms, and replace them with cool-white, Energy Star–certified LEDs for maximum comfort, brightness, and efficiency. 

Insulate Your Windows 

Good insulation becomes especially important in the summer months. The U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA) reports that electricity usage—and costs—tend to rise in June, July, and August due to heavy reliance on air conditioning. Simple upgrades like blackout curtains, window film, or even bubble wrap can dramatically cut down on heat gain, keeping your home cooler and your energy bills lower. These fixes are especially important during the hottest months, when energy usage typically spikes. 

Insulating your windows doesn’t have to be expensive. Blackout curtains cost around $20–$50 per window, window film runs $10–$40 per roll, and draft snakes are just $10–$20. For a low-cost temporary fix, bubble wrap can be repurposed to insulate unused windows.  

If you skip window insulation, your rooms will heat up quickly—leading to higher energy bills and less comfort. These improvements can reduce cooling costs by up to 30%, making your home feel more comfortable without cranking the AC. 

Tip: Focus first on sun-facing windows and use blackout curtains, reflective film, or draft stoppers to reduce heat gain—then maintain them by cleaning regularly and replacing worn materials as needed. 

How to Cool Down a Room Without AC 

Trying to stay cool without cranking the air conditioner? In this section, you’ll learn how to cool down a room without AC using practical, energy-saving strategies. From airflow tweaks to smart DIY fixes, here’s how to cool off a room—naturally and affordably. 

Use Your Fans in the Right Places 

Fans don’t actually lower the room’s temperature, but they circulate air to create a cooling effect on your skin. When placed strategically, they help remove hot air and bring in cooler airflow, especially if you’re working with open windows or shaded areas. 

You can find a variety of fans—from compact box fans to adjustable pedestal models—for anywhere between $20 and $100. Most fans use less than 1 kWh per day, making them far more energy-efficient than air conditioners. That means you can run multiple fans for pennies a day and still feel the difference.  

For ultimate efficiency, use box fans to push warm air out through windows. Be sure to place pedestal or floor fans to blow cooler air directly toward your body and position fans near open windows for cross-ventilation and fresh airflow. 

If fans are poorly placed, warm air can stagnate, and you end up wasting energy without feeling cooler. To truly master how to cool down a room without AC, it’s about directing airflow where it matters most—around you and out of space. 

Tip: Place and adjust fans based on where airflow feels stagnant, using oscillating or adjustable models, and keep them clean and well-maintained for optimal performance. 

Cool Down Your Sleeping Situation 

Bedding has a major impact on body temperature overnight, and switching to the right materials can make your room feel instantly cooler. Heavy fabrics like polyester or flannel trap heat, while breathable options like percale cotton, bamboo, or linen wick moisture and allow airflow. Cooling mattress pads or gel toppers offer passive temperature control, and even your pillow matters—memory foam tends to hold heat, so swapping it for a cooling alternative can help. 

If your bedding holds onto heat, it can disrupt your sleep cycles and make it tough to stay comfortable, especially during warm nights. Switching your bedding into OEKO-TEX–certified fabrics improves your sleep. When shopping for these fabrics, check the GSM (grams per square meter)—lower numbers mean lighter, cooler bedding. To keep things fresh and functional, wash sheets weekly in cold water and plan to replace mattress toppers every 3–5 years. 

Place a Bowl of Ice in Front of a Fan 

Looking for solutions on how to cool off a room? Think ice. This classic DIY trick creates a chilled breeze using items you already have at home. By placing a bowl of ice or frozen water bottles directly in front of a fan, the air that blows over it becomes cooler and slightly more humid, mimicking a basic evaporative cooler. It’s a simple, budget-friendly way to get instant relief in a warm space, especially when you’re working, lounging, or trying to sleep. 

Here’s how to do it: 

1. Fill a metal or glass bowl with ice cubes or frozen bottles. 
2. Place the bowl on a stool or table directly in front of a box or tabletop fan. 
3. Angle the fan slightly downward so it blows across the ice. 
4. Replace the ice every 1–2 hours for a continuous cooling effect. 

Without a cooling element like ice, fans simply move around warm air—which might not be enough on especially hot days. This trick is best for small rooms or direct, personal cooling and works great when you’re stationary. It’s not a long-term solution, but it’s a clever and effective one when used occasionally. 

Note: These do-it-yourself cooling methods are clever and effective, but they’re best used occasionally. Too much moisture can lead to mold, mildew, or surface damage. To protect your space, dry everything thoroughly and use a waterproof layer where needed. 

Make Your Own Swamp Cooler 

If you live in a dry climate and want a budget-friendly way to beat the heat, making your own swamp cooler is a creative solution for how to cool down a room without AC. This DIY method mimics evaporative cooling by blowing air over cold water or ice, adding cool moisture to the air. It’s especially useful in well-ventilated rooms, garages, or workshops where dry air builds up and traditional AC isn’t practical. Energy efficiency is moderate—it uses about the same power as a fan but delivers added cooling through evaporation. 

Here’s how to make one: 

1. Cut holes in a Styrofoam cooler lid to fit a small fan and air outlet (e.g., PVC elbow). 
2. Fill the cooler with ice or cold water. 
3. Turn on the fan to draw air through the ice and push cool air out. 

This DIY cooler isn’t ideal for humid conditions, but in dry air it can make a big difference in comfort. Use only in dry areas, clean the cooler weekly, replace water or ice as needed, and always place a moisture barrier underneath to protect your surfaces.  

Note: DIY cooling hacks can be a lifesaver on hot days but use them with caution. Regular use may lead to dampness that can damage flooring or encourage mold. Always clean up excess moisture and add a barrier to keep surfaces safe. 

Make a PVC Pipe Air Conditioner 

Using just a 5-gallon bucket, a small fan, and PVC elbows, this setup pushes chilled air right where you need it if you’re wondering how to cool off a room without AC. Unlike a regular fan that just moves air around, this mini cooler creates a directed stream of cold air—perfect for cooling off your personal space while you work, sleep, or relax. It’s also energy-efficient, running only on a small fan but offering better cooling performance than basic fan-and-ice setups. 

Here’s how to make it: 

1. Drill holes in the lid of a 5-gallon bucket. 
2. Fit a small fan into the top to blow downward. 
3. Insert 2-3 PVC elbows into holes in the side. 
4. Fill the bucket with ice water or frozen bottles. 

This DIY solution works best for spot cooling, especially in dry climates. If you don’t use a focused cooler like this, you may just circulate warm air—missing out on the cooling power you could get from a properly channeled setup. Use it while seated or sleeping, clean it regularly to avoid mold, replace ice daily, and place a waterproof mat underneath to protect your floor from moisture. 

Note: While these DIY hacks are a fun and fast way to beat the heat, it’s best to use them occasionally. Repeated use can introduce extra moisture into your space, potentially leading to mold or damage to surfaces. To stay safe, dry the area well and lay down a waterproof mat if needed. 

Stick to the Shade in the Room 

Sometimes, staying cool indoors is as simple as avoiding direct sunlight. Shifting where you sit and how you arrange your space can make a big difference. Sunlight pouring through windows heats up furniture, floors, and even your skin, making the room feel significantly warmer than it really is. Staying in the shade—literally—helps reduce perceived heat and keeps you more comfortable throughout the day. 

This tip is budget-friendly too. You can rearrange furniture at no cost, or spend $10–$50 on simple accessories like folding screens, indoor plants, or light-colored curtains. Since it’s a completely passive strategy, there’s zero energy usage, making it one of the most efficient ways to improve indoor comfort. 

Even the best-ventilated room can feel uncomfortable if you’re sitting in a sunbeam. Create a shaded cooling corner with airflow and hydration, use light-colored curtains or UV-filtering film, and keep window treatments and plants clean for optimal comfort. 

Note: DIY cooling methods can be handy in a pinch, but they come with a catch: too much moisture can harm your space. Limit use, dry areas completely afterward, and place a protective layer underneath to avoid problems like mold or water damage. 

Remember to Turn the Lights Out 

One of the most overlooked ways to cool down a house without AC is turning off the lights. Switching off unnecessary lighting, especially incandescent or halogen bulbs, can make a noticeable difference and can make a room cooler with little effort.  

Natural daylight is your best friend during the day. But if lighting is necessary, switch to LEDs bulbs, which cost just $2–$10 each, reduces both heat and electricity usage by 75% or more. Installing motion sensors or smart bulbs can also help prevent forgetfulness and reduce both heat and energy use effortlessly. 

Leaving lights on may seem harmless, but over time, the heat they generate can work against all your other cooling efforts.  

Tip: Use Energy Star–certified soft-white LEDs in enclosed spaces like bedrooms and bathrooms, replace bulbs as needed, and dust fixtures regularly to minimize heat and maximize efficiency. 

Close Off Your Space 

Closing off unused rooms helps trap cool air where you need it most and prevents warm air from circulating unnecessarily, making your cooling efforts more effective. And since you’re working with airflow, not electricity, it’s also a highly energy-efficient way to reduce strain on your cooling system. Doing this is free but if you want to take it a step further, draft blockers (which cost just a few dollars) can seal the bottoms of doors to stop air leaks. 

If you leave doors open, warm air from other areas will circulate into the space you’re trying to keep cool, making it harder to feel the effects of your fan or AC. Sealing off unused spaces helps optimize your cooling, reducing the load on your AC or fans if you’re looking into how to cool down a room without AC. 

Tip: Close off unused rooms, block door drafts, shut vents, and use curtains or dividers when needed to keep the air cool where you want it most. 

Unplug Technology 

Electronics like TVs, gaming consoles, and computers continue to generate heat—even when in standby mode. That extra warmth might seem small, but in a confined space or during a hot afternoon, it adds up quickly and makes it harder to keep your room cool.  

Unplugging these devices, especially during the hottest parts of the day when they’re not in use, reduces heat buildup and helps maintain a more comfortable temperature. Using a power strip with an on/off switch makes it easier to disconnect multiple items at once. This simple habit not only keeps your space cooler but also helps lower your electricity bill over time. 

Tip: Use smart plugs or timers to power down devices automatically, and keep electronics updated for better energy efficiency. 

How to Stay Cool in Hot Weather 

When temperatures rise, keeping your body cool becomes just as important as cooling your home. Whether you’re indoors or outside, these practical, low-effort strategies will help you stay safe, comfortable, and refreshed during extreme heat. From smarter cooking habits to personal cooling tricks, here’s how to stay cool in hot weather—without relying on air conditioning. 

 Avoid Using the Stove 

If you’re looking for how to stay cool in hot weather, what you cook and how you cook it matters more than you think. Using your oven or stovetop during the day adds a lot of unwanted heat to your home, especially during already warm afternoons. That heat lingers, making it harder for fans to keep up and pushing your AC to work overtime. 

Instead, stick to no-cook meals like salads, smoothies, and sandwiches, or swap in energy-efficient appliances like a microwave, air fryer, or toaster oven, which give off much less heat. If you do need to cook a full meal, try doing it early in the morning or after the sun goes down, when your home’s naturally cooler. 

Skipping the stove on hot days can make a noticeable difference in keeping your home comfortable. It also reduces internal heat sources, especially during peak afternoon hours when your home is already warm. 

Tip: Plan cool meals ahead, use Energy Star–rated or insulated appliances with timers, keep them clean, and position them away from walls for better airflow and efficiency. 

Use Appliances Efficiently 

Everyday items like dishwashers, dryers, and computers can generate a surprising amount of heat especially when used frequently or during peak afternoon hours. 

Try running full dishwasher loads on the air-dry setting, and air-dry your laundry instead of firing up the clothes dryer. Turn off electronics like TVs and laptops when they’re not in use, and if possible, move heat-generating appliances away from your main living or sleeping areas. These small changes not only reduce heat buildup but also cut down your energy bill and extend the lifespan of your appliances. 

Tip: Use appliances during cooler hours, choose Energy Star models with eco-modes, and maintain them by cleaning filters and checking seals regularly for peak efficiency. 

Bake and Wash at Night 

Timing is everything—especially when it comes to household chores and if you’re seeking ways on how to stay cool in hot weather. Running heat-producing appliances like the oven, dishwasher, or clothes dryer during the day only adds to the warmth already building inside your home. Shifting those tasks to off-peak hours can reduce grid demand and may lower your bill if you’re on time-of-use rates. 

Try setting timers on your oven, dishwasher, and washer/dryer for evening or overnight runs and use delay-start functions if available. 

Nighttime temperatures are lower, so excess heat is easier to manage and doesn’t compete with daytime cooling efforts. If you do it in the morning or midday, your appliances will contribute to peak indoor temperatures during the hottest part of the day. 

Tip: Adopt “night mode” habits in summer by using programmable appliances, automating timing with smart devices, and keeping filters, ducts, and seals clean for safe, efficient operation. 

Eat Hydrating Foods Like Watermelon, Cucumbers, and Oranges

Foods with high water content help you stay hydrated and naturally regulate your body temperature. Eating cooling, water-rich fruits and vegetables gives your body what it needs to handle heat better from the inside out. 

Try adding fruits like watermelon, oranges, and strawberries to snacks or meals and avoid salty or processed foods that can dehydrate you. Staying cool starts with what you eat—hydrate from the inside to beat the heat outside.  

Tip: Focus on fresh, water-rich produce throughout the day to stay hydrated, reduce overheating, and support natural cooling from within. 

Take Cool Showers or Baths

When thinking about how to stay cool in hot weather, one of the simplest and most effective methods is taking a cool (not cold) shower or bath.  Cool (not cold) water helps lower your core body temperature and offers quick relief from heat stress. It’s also a safe and refreshing way to relax during hot weather. Even short showers can make a big difference in how your body handles the heat. 

 Tip: Shower with the bathroom fan on to reduce humidity buildup and enhance the cooling effect throughout your space. 

Apply a Damp Washcloth to Pulse Points (Wrists, Neck, and Ankles)

Applying cool, damp cloths to areas where blood vessels are close to the skin helps rapidly cool your body. These areas—like your wrists, neck, and ankles—are where blood vessels are closest to the skin, making them natural regulators for body temperature. A little cool moisture on these spots can help your entire body feel cooler fast. 

This method is easy and works great in the middle of the day or before bed—especially when paired with a fan. 

Tip: Keep chilled washcloths in a zip bag in your fridge and rotate them throughout the day for quick, refreshing relief from the heat. 

Use a Dehumidifier if Your Home Feels Muggy—Dry Air Feels Cooler

When figuring out how to stay cool in hot weather, it’s not just the temperature that matters—it’s the humidity too. High humidity makes the air feel hotter because it slows down the body’s ability to cool itself through sweat evaporation. Removing excess moisture makes the air feel lighter, drier, and more comfortable. 

Use a dehumidifier in rooms that feel clammy or sticky—especially basements or bathrooms. Set it to maintain indoor humidity between 30–50%, which is ideal for comfort and empty the water reservoir regularly or connect a hose for continuous drainage and appliance efficiency. 

Reducing humidity not only helps you feel cooler but also prevents mold growth and improves indoor air quality overall. 

 Tip: Use a hygrometer to monitor humidity levels and run your dehumidifier during the most humid hours of the day for best results. 

How to Keep a Garage Cool in Summer 

Garages often become heat traps in the summer, especially if they’re not insulated or ventilated properly. Whether you use your garage as a workspace, gym, or storage area, keeping it cool is essential for comfort, safety, and protecting your belongings. We’ll show you how to keep a garage cool in summer using practical, low-cost strategies that actually work. 

Improve Attic Ventilation (if Your Garage is Connected to Attic) 

If your garage shares a ceiling with an attic, poor ventilation up there could be one of the biggest reasons it feels like an oven. Attics can hit 150°F or more on hot days, and that heat radiates straight down into your garage, making cooling efforts feel pointless. Ventilate the attic above your garage to prevent heat buildup from radiating downward. 

Here’s how to do it: 

1. Install ridge vents, gable vents, or soffit vents to allow hot air to escape naturally. 
2. For added effect, consider a solar-powered attic fan above the garage. 
3. Make sure existing vents are clear of debris and functioning properly. 

Garage ceilings absorb intense heat from poorly ventilated attics, which warms the space below and makes it much harder to keep your garage cool—especially during summer. Without proper ventilation, that trapped attic heat will continue radiating downward all day, reducing the effectiveness of fans, insulation, or any other cooling strategies you’ve put in place.  

The cost of improving attic ventilation is relatively reasonable, with passive vents running between $30–$100, and solar-powered attic fans ranging from $150–$400. In terms of energy efficiency, it’s a smart investment—solar fans provide continuous airflow without adding to your energy bill. 

Tip: Check for attic ventilation, install rust-resistant vents or fans with sensors if needed, and clean vents and fan blades seasonally for optimal performance. 

Install a Garage Ventilation Fan (If There’s No Attic)

For garages without attic access, a wall-mounted exhaust fan or garage ventilation fan can actively push out hot, stagnant air—especially useful during the hottest part of the day. 

Here’s how to do it: 

1. Install a wall or window-mounted fan near the ceiling (where hot air rises). 
2. Pair with a vent or small intake fan near the ground for better air exchange. 
3. Use a fan with a thermostat or timer to automate airflow. 

Doing this prevents heat buildup and allows cooler outdoor air to flow in, making the garage safer and more comfortable for storage, work, or hobbies. 

Tip: Select a wall-mounted exhaust fan equipped with built-in temperature and humidity sensors. 

Open Garage Doors Strategically  

Garages often lack built-in ventilation, but opening the door during early morning or evening lets fresh air flow in and pushes hot, stale air out. It’s a smart way to create passive ventilation without expensive upgrades. 

Without this airflow, heat builds up quickly especially in the afternoon, turning your garage into a stuffy, overheated space. If you want to leave the door open longer, a bug screen (around $20–$40) can help keep pests out. Opening garage doors strategically is highly energy efficient since it relies on nature’s cooler temperatures rather than electricity to keep your garage from overheating. 

Tip: Consider adding a bug screen ($20–$40) if you plan to keep the door open for longer periods. 

Use Fans in the Right Places (e.g., box or industrial fans) 

One of the most effective ways to cool down a garage in the summer is to move hot air out or circulate cooler air within the garage is by placing fans strategically. Since garages don’t usually have HVAC vents, fans simulate airflow and improve thermal comfort dramatically. 

Here’s how to do it: 

1. Place a box fan in a window or open door facing out to exhaust heat. 
2. Use industrial-grade floor fans to circulate air and prevent hot spots. 
3. In larger garages, consider a wall-mounted oscillating fan. 

Garages typically lack built-in air circulation, which means hot air has nowhere to go—especially during the summer months. Without proper airflow, heat can build up and become stagnant, creating a stuffy, even unsafe environment for working or storing items.  

Fans offer immediate relief, support other cooling strategies like insulation and attic ventilation, and are relatively affordable—ranging from $30 to $200 depending on the size and power. They’re also energy efficient, using far less electricity than traditional air conditioning, making them a smart and effective solution for how to keep garage cool in summer. 

Tip: Choose high-CFM fans with adjustable settings, place them near doors or windows for cross-ventilation, and maintain them by cleaning blades monthly and oiling the motor seasonally. 

Invest in the Right Ceiling Fans 

When it comes to cooling your home efficiently, ceiling fans are one of the best long-term investments you can make. They don’t lower the air temperature, but they help circulate air to create a wind-chill effect, making you feel cooler without running up your energy bill. 

Here’s what you’ll do: 

1. Measure the room: Determine the square footage to select a fan with the correct blade span.  
2. Research and purchase: Look for Energy Star-rated fans that fit your room’s size and aesthetic preferences.  
3. Installation: Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for mounting, ensuring the fan is securely attached to a UL-rated box on the ceiling joist.  

A well-placed ceiling fan enhances comfort, saves energy, and complements your cooling strategy year-round. 

Tip: Choose a ceiling fan with a reversible motor and multiple speed settings to support both summer cooling and winter warmth. 

Optimize the Fans You Have 

Before buying anything new, make sure you’re getting the most out of the fans you already own. Ensure all fans are clean and functioning efficiently.  Properly placed and well-maintained fans can make a noticeable difference in your home’s comfort and airflow—especially on hot days when every breeze counts. Be sure to clean fan blades and housings regularly to prevent dust buildup and place fans near windows or hallways to promote cross-ventilation. 

With a few simple adjustments, your existing fans can do a lot of the heavy lifting when it comes to staying cool. 

Tip: Use oscillating or box fans in high-traffic areas and aim them to push hot air out or pull cooler air in from shaded windows. 

Reduce Heat Absorption

Reducing the amount of heat your garage absorbs from the sun can drastically lower indoor temperatures. Light-colored and reflective surfaces deflect solar radiation rather than absorbing it. 

Paint the garage door a light or reflective color (like white, beige, or light gray) to bounce sunlight away. You can also apply UV-blocking film or reflective coatings to garage windows to reduce solar heat gain. If accessible, install a radiant barrier under the roof deck or ceiling to reflect radiant heat away from the garage interior. 

Doing this doesn’t just help regulate temperature—it also reduces energy usage if you’re running fans or ventilation. 

 Tip: Choose UV-resistant materials and light-colored finishes to reflect sunlight and keep your garage noticeably cooler throughout the day. 

Avoid Running Hot Engines, Power Tools, or Appliances in the Garage for Extended Periods

Gasoline engines, lawn equipment, and power tools generate intense heat while operating. Using them for extended periods in an enclosed garage adds unnecessary heat and humidity to the space. 

To do this, move hot equipment outside whenever possible before starting it. Run tools in short bursts and allow cooling time between uses. Avoid charging large battery-powered tools in direct sun or closed areas. 

Minimizing heat-generating activities indoors helps keep your garage temperature under control and protects both your tools and your comfort. 

Tip: Use power tools or equipment outside whenever possible, and allow cool-down breaks to prevent excessive heat buildup indoors. 

Hose Down the Garage Floor with Cool Water

Spraying water over the concrete garage floor provides temporary evaporative cooling. As the water evaporates, it draws heat away from the surface and lowers the ambient temperature slightly. 

Here’s how to do it: 

1. Use a garden hose to lightly spray the garage floor during the hottest parts of the day. 
2. Allow water to evaporate naturally or use a squeegee to guide it toward the drain if needed. 
3. Be cautious of slip hazards and only use this method if your garage is well-ventilated. 

This method won’t replace fans or ventilation, but it’s a helpful, short-term trick when the heat becomes unbearable. 

Tip: Use this technique alongside fans or open doors for faster evaporation and improved airflow—but skip it if your garage doesn’t have proper drainage or ventilation. 

Choose an Insulated Garage Door If Replacing an Old One

An insulated garage door helps prevent outside heat from radiating into your garage—especially when direct sunlight hits the door. It also improves energy efficiency and soundproofing. 

When replacing a garage door for better cooling, look for models with polyurethane or polystyrene insulation and a high R-value. For an existing door, consider a DIY insulation kit to retrofit it with reflective panels or rigid foam boards. 

This upgrade doesn’t just help regulate garage temperature—it can also improve your home’s overall insulation performance. 

Tip: Choose a garage door with built-in insulation and weatherstripping or retrofit your existing one using a reflective insulation kit to minimize heat transfer. 

Use Gravel or Mulch Instead of Heat-Retaining Concrete Near the Garage Entrance

Surfaces like asphalt or concrete absorb and radiate heat into the garage. Replacing or covering them with light-colored gravel or mulch reduces radiant heat exposure at entry points. 

Be sure to replace adjacent concrete with gravel or mulch beds where possible. Use reflective pavers or light-colored concrete stain if full replacement isn’t feasible and consider planting low-maintenance groundcover plants to further reduce heat. 

Making this change can lower the temperature near your garage door and reduce the amount of heat that enters your space. If you’re looking for tips on how to keep your  

Tip: Opt for light-colored gravel or mulch to deflect heat, and combine it with greenery or pavers to create a cooler, more inviting entry zone.

Cooling your home in the summer doesn’t have to mean sky-high electric bills or relying on bulky AC units. With the right mix of DIY upgrades, smart ventilation, insulation improvements, and personal cooling strategies, you can take control of your comfort—room by room, season by season. 

And if you’re ready to make your home even more energy-efficient year-round, Santanna Energy Services is here to help. We believe comfort shouldn’t come at the cost of peace of mind. That’s why we offer a variety of energy plans designed to fit your lifestyle—so whether you’re running fans all day or strategically cooling with natural airflow, you’ll find a great fit. Explore our energy plans now and choose one that keeps you cool, calm, and in control.