
While your home is your retreat for staying cool in this blistering summer heat, you don’t have to break the bank. Experts say that for every degree you raise your thermostat, this simple act is saving you 7–10 percent on your overall cooling costs. If turning up your thermostat is the last thing you want to do, here are five ways you can save and stay cool this summer.
Cover your windows during the day.
Sure, sunlight is your friend during the winter, but it quickly becomes your enemy when you’re trying to stay cool this summer. If you don’t have window shades, blinds or curtains, it’s best to invest in these this summer in order to block out the heat and keep your home at a cool temperature.
Open your windows in the evenings.
When the temperatures go down in the evening, take advantage of the free air conditioning provided by Mother Nature herself.
Reverse your ceiling fan direction.
Did you know that reversing the direction of your ceiling fan can help you save and stay cool this summer? When you set your ceiling fan to rotate counter-clockwise, the air runs straight down, which can make a room’s temperature seem about 8 degrees cooler.
Use your major appliances less in the daytime.
When you use appliances like your stove, oven or washing machine, these generate unwanted heat, which will invariably cause you to turn your thermostat down and increase your cooling costs. Wait until the evening, when the temperatures are often cooler, to run your heat-generating appliances.
Invest in a smart thermostat.
Smart thermostats are a great way to adjust your heating and cooling from anywhere, as long as you have your mobile device! In addition, smart thermostats can learn your cooling habits, send you reports and help you save even more as you tweak your settings as a result. Experts say that investing in a smart thermostat can save you as much as 15 percent on your cooling and heating costs annually!

