Heat waves demand action. These six strategies work to lower indoor temperatures without burning through the air conditioning bill.
Close blinds and curtains during daylight. Direct sunlight heats rooms fast. Blocking rays before they enter keeps interior spaces cooler than playing catch-up with AC later. Focus on west-facing windows where afternoon sun blazes hardest.
Open windows strategically at night. Once temperatures drop after sunset, crack windows on the shaded side of your home. Cross-ventilation pulls cooler air through and exhausts warm air out. Morning, close everything again before heat returns.
Use fans wisely. Ceiling fans and portable units circulate air and create the perception of cooler temperatures. Running a fan in a closed room wastes energy, but positioning fans near windows amplifies night cooling and improves air circulation during the day.
Reduce heat-generating appliances. Ovens, dryers, and dishwashers dump thermal energy into your home. Cook with microwaves or stovetops instead. Air-dry clothes. Run the dishwasher during cooler evening hours or skip it entirely.
Switch to cooler bedding. Linen and cotton sheets breathe better than heavy synthetics. A cooling pillow or moisture-wicking mattress topper makes sleep possible when temperatures spike.
Stay hydrated and dress right. Drink water constantly. Wear loose, light-colored clothing that reflects heat rather than absorbs it. Wet a bandana or washcloth and drape it around your neck for immediate relief.
These low-cost fixes reduce reliance on air conditioning while keeping you safe during extreme heat events.