Top 8 Cheap Ways to Keep Your House Cool This Summer

Use Blackout Curtains to Block Out Sunlight

One of the simplest and most affordable ways to cool your home is to use blackout curtains, especially on windows that face the sun. According to the U.S.

Department of Energy, about 76% of sunlight that falls on standard double-pane windows enters to become heat. Blackout curtains can block up to 99% of incoming light and drastically reduce indoor temperatures.

You don’t need expensive designer brands; even basic blackout curtains from local stores can make a noticeable difference. Install them before the hottest part of the day, usually between 10 a.m.

and 4 p.m., to maximize the cooling effect. Many homeowners have reported rooms feeling 10-15 degrees cooler just by keeping these curtains closed during peak sunlight.

Besides cooling, blackout curtains also offer privacy and can help you save on air conditioning costs. It’s a small investment that pays off all summer long.

Switch to Energy-Efficient LED Bulbs

Traditional incandescent bulbs emit a surprising amount of heat—up to 90% of their energy output is heat, not light. In comparison, LED bulbs stay much cooler and use at least 75% less energy, according to the U.S.

Environmental Protection Agency. Swapping out all your old bulbs for LEDs doesn’t just lower your cooling costs; it also makes rooms feel less stuffy and overheated, especially in the evenings.

Many households have noticed that after making the switch, they need to run their fans and air conditioners less often. LEDs are now available in a wide range of colors and brightness levels, so you don’t have to sacrifice comfort for style.

They also last much longer, reducing waste and replacement costs. Making this change is a quick DIY project with immediate benefits.

Use Fans Strategically for Maximum Airflow

Fans are a classic way to cool a house, but placement is key to getting the most out of them. Ceiling fans should spin counterclockwise in summer to push cool air downward, a fact backed by the U.S.

Department of Energy. Portable fans can be placed near windows at night to draw in cool air, or aimed outwards during the day to push hot air out.

For an easy trick, set up two fans in a “cross-breeze”—one pulling in fresh air, the other pushing out warm air. According to consumer surveys, this method can make a room feel up to 8 degrees cooler without turning on the AC.

Tower fans are also effective in small spaces and use very little electricity. Combining different types of fans can keep air moving and prevent hot spots, providing comfort on even the hottest days.

Seal Gaps and Cracks to Prevent Hot Air Leaks

Hot air sneaking in through poorly sealed windows and doors can undo all your cooling efforts. The U.S.

Department of Energy estimates that sealing leaks can save up to 20% on cooling costs each year. Use weatherstripping for doors and caulk for windows—both are inexpensive and easy to apply.

Pay special attention to areas around window frames, door jambs, and even electrical outlets, as these can be surprising sources of leaks. Many homeowners have found that after sealing gaps, rooms immediately feel less drafty and more comfortable.

This simple fix also keeps out dust and pollen, making your indoor air cleaner. It’s a weekend project that can lead to long-term savings and a cooler home.

Cook Outside or Use Small Appliances

Cooking with your oven or stove can raise indoor temperatures by several degrees, especially in smaller homes. Studies have shown that using ovens during peak summer can increase room temperatures by up to 10 degrees Fahrenheit.

Try switching to outdoor grilling, or use appliances like slow cookers, toaster ovens, or microwaves instead. These produce far less heat and are more energy-efficient.

Many families report feeling more comfortable during dinner time when they keep main cooking activities outside or minimized. It’s also a fun excuse to enjoy more barbecues or picnic-style meals.

This approach not only keeps your home cooler but also adds a bit of summer adventure to your routine.

Open Windows at Night for Natural Cooling

Nighttime temperatures often drop dramatically, even during heatwaves. The National Renewable Energy Laboratory recommends taking advantage of this by opening windows in the evening and early morning to flush out hot air.

Cross-ventilation—opening windows on opposite sides of the house—creates a natural breeze that can reduce indoor temperatures by several degrees. Homeowners who follow this routine often wake up to a refreshingly cool house, even after a hot day.

Just remember to close windows and blinds before the sun rises to trap that cool air inside. This simple timing adjustment can make your home feel naturally air-conditioned without spending a dime.

Install Reflective Window Film

Reflective window films are a budget-friendly solution that can block up to 80% of solar heat, according to current research. These films are easy to apply and don’t change the look of your windows much from inside.

Many people are surprised at how much cooler their rooms feel after installing window film, especially on south- and west-facing windows. Reflective films also help protect furniture from sun damage and reduce glare on screens.

The investment is minimal, and most people can apply the film themselves in just a few hours. Over the course of a summer, this can lead to significant savings on both cooling costs and home maintenance.

Plant Shade-Giving Trees or Use Outdoor Shade Cloths

Planting shade trees or setting up shade cloths outside windows is a longer-term but highly effective way to cool your home. The U.S.

Department of Energy confirms that shade from trees or large bushes can reduce surrounding air temperatures by up to 9 degrees Fahrenheit. Even temporary solutions like installing inexpensive fabric shade sails can block direct sunlight from hitting your windows and walls.

Homeowners who invest in shade solutions often see a drop in indoor temperatures and less reliance on air conditioning. Trees also offer environmental benefits, improving air quality and adding value to your property.

This strategy takes a bit of planning, but the results are worth the effort, especially for those looking to stay cool summer after summer.