Hot days and high energy bills tend to go hand-in-hand during summer, but they don’t have to. If you live in an apartment, you might think your options for staying cool and cutting costs are limited. The good news? There are plenty of easy and affordable ways to beat the heat without blasting your air conditioner 24/7.
Here are some summer energy-saving tips that work well for apartment living.
Block the Sun to Keep Your Space Cool
Direct sunlight can heat up your apartment fast, especially if your windows face the sun most of the day. Keeping your blinds or curtains closed during the daytime is a simple way to reduce heat.
If you can, use blackout curtains or thermal drapes. These not only block light but also help insulate your windows, keeping the cool air inside. In the evening, open up your windows and curtains to let cooler air in and give your space a nice breeze.
Use Fans Wisely
Fans are a great way to stay cool, but they work best when used properly. A ceiling fan should spin counterclockwise in the summer, pushing air down and creating a wind-chill effect. If you have a standing or box fan, position it near a window at night to pull in cooler outside air.
Just remember that fans cool people, not rooms, so turn them off when you leave to avoid wasting energy.
Make the Most of Your Air Conditioner
If you have an air conditioner, whether it’s central air or a window unit, it’s important to help it run efficiently. Make sure to clean or replace the filter regularly, at least once a month during peak use.
Keep your windows and doors closed tightly while the AC is running, and don’t set it too low. A setting between 76 and 78 degrees Fahrenheit is usually comfortable without overworking the system.
Unplug Devices You’re Not Using
Many electronics draw power even when they’re turned off. This “phantom energy” adds up over time. Unplug chargers, TVs, gaming systems, and kitchen appliances when they’re not in use. A power strip can make this easier by allowing you to turn off multiple items with one switch.
While you’re at it, consider switching out older light bulbs for LED ones, they use less energy and don’t give off as much heat.
Cook with Less Heat
Your oven and stove can make your apartment feel like a sauna. Try to cook during the cooler parts of the day, like early morning or late evening. Better yet, choose meals that don’t require cooking at all, like salads or sandwiches. If you do need to cook, opt for smaller appliances like a microwave, toaster oven, or air fryer, which won’t heat up the whole kitchen.
Do Laundry the Energy-Smart Way
Laundry can use a lot of electricity, especially if you’re washing small loads or using hot water. Try to wash full loads in cold water whenever possible. It gets your clothes clean and saves energy at the same time. If your apartment allows it, air-dry your clothes on a drying rack instead of using the dryer.
Use Nature to Your Advantage
Take advantage of cooler nights by opening windows on opposite sides of your apartment to create a cross breeze. This natural ventilation can make a big difference in how your apartment feels.
You can also place a bowl of ice in front of a fan for a quick DIY air-cooling trick. And don’t underestimate the power of dressing for the weather, light, breathable fabrics can help you stay cool without touching the thermostat.
Small Changes, Big Savings
Living in an apartment doesn’t mean you’re stuck with high energy bills all summer long. Simple habits like closing the blinds, unplugging unused electronics, and using fans effectively can go a long way. You don’t need to spend a fortune to stay comfortable, you just need a few smart tricks up your sleeve. Stay cool and energy-smart this summer!