When the summer heat kicks in, keeping your home cool can be tough, especially if you’re trying to avoid sky-high energy bills. Whether it’s the hot afternoons or restless nights, a few small changes can make a big difference. In this post, we’ll share simple, affordable ways to keep your house cooler all summer long—from quick fixes to home upgrades.
Get the Most From Your Air Conditioning
Take care of your AC by changing the filters every month and keeping the outdoor units clean. Have a professional check your system once a year to make sure it’s working well.
For new homes, dual-zone cooling creates separate cooling areas for upstairs and downstairs, each with its own thermostat. This means you only cool the rooms you’re using, which can lower your energy bills.
Smart thermostats are another great option. They can learn your schedule and adjust the temperature automatically. They cool less when you’re away and can start cooling before you get home. Some even use weather forecasts to plan better.
To boost your air conditioner’s efficiency, consider:
- Variable-speed systems that adjust cooling levels as needed
- Properly sized units (not too big or small)
- Sealing ducts so they don’t leak cool air
- Running ceiling fans so you can set the thermostat higher
When building or updating your home, we can help you choose the right cooling system that saves money while keeping you comfortable.
Smart Window Management
If you want to know how to keep your house cool, double- and triple-pane windows are a great start. These windows act like a thermos, with gas layers between the glass that slow heat transfer. They help keep cool air in and hot air out during summer. They also support a more eco-friendly home.
For new homes or window replacements, look for models with thermal breaks—frames built with materials that stop heat from moving through them. Vinyl and fiberglass frames usually keep heat out better than aluminum.
Window treatments matter too. Cellular shades trap air in honeycomb pockets to insulate your windows. Exterior shutters or awnings block sunlight before it hits the glass, keeping rooms cooler.
Better Insulation
Good insulation doesn’t just help in the winter—it’s also key for keeping cool in the summer. If your house still feels hot even when the air conditioner is on, your insulation might need an upgrade. Modern insulation materials can stop outside heat from entering your home. During remodeling, we can check your current insulation and make improvements to help it work better.
Create Air Movement
Fans help move air around and make your home feel cooler without using more AC. Make sure ceiling fans spin counterclockwise in summer to push air down. Put box fans in windows at night to pull in cool air. When we design new homes, we place windows where they can catch breezes to cool the house naturally.
Use Plants for Cooling
Trees and plants do more than look nice — they help cool your home. Shade trees on the south and west sides can lower indoor temperatures by up to 20 degrees. Ground plants like shrubs or flowers can reduce heat reflection. We often include these natural cooling methods when designing outdoor spaces for new homes.
Cut Down on Heat-Making Activities
Many things you do at home can make it hotter inside. On hot days, try to:
- Use the microwave instead of the oven
- Run dishwashers and washing machines at night
- Hang clothes to dry when you can
- Switch to LED lights that produce less heat
Roof and Attic Tips
Your roof soaks up a lot of heat on sunny days. Light-colored roofing materials reflect sunlight and stay cooler. Good attic airflow stops hot air from getting trapped and heating rooms below. For Chicago homes with rooftop decks, we design spaces with materials that stay cooler in the sun.
Invest in Long-Term Solutions
While quick changes help during heat waves, some solutions last longer. Here’s how to help keep your house cool in the summer:
- Add heat shields in attics
- Buy energy-saving appliances
- Install awnings or pergolas for shade
- Put in whole-house fans
As custom home builders who focus on modern designs, we think about cooling in every project. We can suggest ways to keep your home cool while still looking great.
MK Construction Has the Solution
Keeping your house cool in summer doesn’t have to mean high energy bills or being uncomfortable. With some smart changes, you can stay cool even during Chicago’s hottest days. Whether you’re building new, remodeling your home, or looking for simple improvements, our team at MK Construction can get the job done right.
Want to make your home a cool summer retreat? Call us at (773) 817-1861 or contact us online to learn how we can help you make your home a cool oasis.