8 Genius Ways to Keep Your Home Cool

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 By Adrienne Holland, PopSugar

The Summer heat ain't no joke, so it may seem like running your AC at full blast is the only way to stay cool throughout the hotter months. But what if we told you that there are actually many other practical and effective ways to stay cool this Summer that have nothing to do with turning on your air conditioning unit? Read on as we explore the top eight tips guaranteed to keep you feeling refreshed and comfortable, and not to mention just a little bit richer with all of those energy bill savings!

Decorate With Heat-Absorbing Houseplants

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Aside from looking beautiful, plants are also natural coolants and can improve your home's air quality, making them the ideal home accessory for Summer. Check out this list of plants that absorb heat and emit oxygen and spread them throughout your home to create a lush jungle vibe.

Invest in Pure Cotton Sheets

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Investing in a good set of breathable cotton sheets, like these luxury sets under $150, is a splurge you won't regret. Synthetic fabric blends might be soft to the touch, but they won't keep you as cool while you snooze. Instead of waking up sweaty and uncomfortable during the night, consider this small but impactful upgrade for a better night's sleep.

Try This Fan Trick

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Running a fan helps to circulate air, but if the air in your home is warm, it won't provide much relief. Instead, try placing a metal mixing bowl of ice in front of your fan to circulate cold air and mimic the effect of an AC unit.

Keep Your Body Temp Cool

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One of the best ways to beat the heat starts right with you and your internal temperature! Focusing on keeping your body nice, cool, and relaxed will do wonders for your Summer comfort. Whether it is rinsing off in a cold shower, soaking your feet in an ice bath before bed, or simply taking advantage of a cold compress throughout the day, you will quickly forget why you ever needed AC anyway.

Use Thermal Drapes

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Before you leave for the day, be sure to close all of the blinds and curtains found in your home. Covering up all of your windows and any glass doors will prevent the sun from fully glaring into your rooms and in turn raising the internal temperature of your space. When you return home from work, you will be amazed by how cool your home is without the use of AC! For even better results, invest in thermal drapes. Thermal drapes are lined to help block heat and harmful UV rays from entering your home and can save as much as 20 percent on your energy bill with an average savings of $480 a year.

Rely on Natural Light During the Day

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To avoid using your AC unit during the day, make a point to turn all of your lights off and use the natural glow from the sunshine instead. Having lights turned on (and other electronics, for that matter) does nothing but increase the overall temperature of your home, making the need for AC more prevalent. So, opting for a natural lighting option will ensure cooler temps as well as a much cheaper energy bill.

Keep Windows Cracked at Night

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Since the outside temperature drops during Summer nights, keeping your windows cracked while you sleep will encourage cooler air flow through the night and the early morning hours. You will not only wake up feeling comfy and cool, but you will also be more than ready to take on the day.

Bust Out the Grill

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Cooking with your oven and stovetop might be your go-to method for dinner, but using these appliances raises the temp inside your home. So, if you are attempting to avoid turning on the AC, look no further than your grill for supper! This way, no unwanted heat will get trapped inside your walls. Need inspiration? These easy grilling recipes are perfect for beginners.

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