How to Stay Cool Without Relying on the AC

With summer temperatures soaring across the U.S. (and beyond), many parts of the country are about to experience heat waves—some in places that aren’t typically used to this kind of heat. And while the comfort of air conditioning is a blessing, it’s not always the most sustainable or cost-effective solution. Plus, prolonged heat can be dangerous, especially for vulnerable populations. It’s important everyone knows how to stay cool without relying on the AC.

Not every home has the luxury of central air conditioning, and for those of us in older homes—like my 125-year-old house—air conditioning isn’t always an option. We don’t have whole-house AC, so we rely on window units, but those can get expensive quickly. We’ve learned to use them strategically and sparingly, making the most of the cooler hours of the day while still keeping costs in check. That’s why finding alternative ways to stay cool becomes so important.

So, let’s talk about how to stay cool while saving energy—and keeping your community in mind.

1. Block Out the Sun

The U.S. Department of Energy estimates that nearly 76% of sunlight that hits your windows turns into heat inside your home. Keeping that sunshine out is one of the best ways to reduce indoor temperatures without cranking the AC.

You don’t have to live in darkness to block out the heat. Consider options like peel-and-stick solar film, which can block up to 78% of the sun’s heat. Cellular shades, with their honeycomb structure, act as insulators and can reduce heat by up to 60%. You can also go for slat-style blinds or roman shades, though they’re not as effective. The key is to cover your windows, especially when the sun is at its peak.

2. Create a Cross Breeze

A good breeze can make all the difference. While it won’t directly lower the temperature, it’ll help you feel cooler by promoting sweat evaporation—the body’s natural cooling method.

Open windows on opposite sides of your home to create cross-ventilation, and use fans to direct the cooler air in while pushing the warm air out. For best results, position the inlet at a lower level (e.g., open the top half of a window), allowing hot air to rise naturally. In some areas, cross-ventilation has been shown to drop indoor temperatures by as much as 11°F.

3. Optimize Your Ceiling Fans

Ceiling fans are an underrated cooling tool. A fan doesn’t actually lower the temperature, but it helps your body’s cooling process by aiding sweat evaporation. Set your ceiling fan to spin counterclockwise for a cooling downdraft. If it’s spinning the wrong way, simply flip the switch to reverse it.

Don’t forget to clean your fans regularly! Dusty blades can reduce efficiency and even throw crud around the room. Make it a part of your cleaning routine to wipe them down and ensure everything is securely fastened.

4. Keep Humidity in Check

Humidity is the enemy when it comes to how to stay cool without AC. When the air is saturated, sweat doesn’t evaporate as effectively, leaving you feeling hotter than you actually are. Dehumidifiers can help by removing moisture from the air, making it feel cooler. Aim to keep your indoor humidity between 30% and 50%, which is ideal for both comfort and health. And if you’re running the shower, make sure the bathroom fan is on to help with moisture control.

5. Use Appliances Wisely

Did you know that appliances like ovens, dishwashers, and refrigerators contribute significantly to indoor heat? The energy they use often creates more heat, raising the temperature inside. In fact, some appliances can add up to 16% of your home’s internal heat.

To combat this, try using heavy appliances during the cooler hours of the day—or better yet, avoid them altogether when possible. Instead of using the oven, grill outside or use smaller appliances like a toaster oven or air fryer to keep things cool. And remember, unplugging devices when not in use can also prevent unnecessary heat buildup.

6. Cool Your Home from the Outside with Landscaping and Roofing

The intense heat of the sun doesn’t just warm the air—it heats up your roof and walls, making your home feel hotter. But there’s a lot you can do from the outside to help keep things cool inside. For example, homes surrounded by trees tend to stay cooler than those without. Trees provide natural shade, and studies show that increasing tree cover by 25% can reduce a household’s annual cooling energy needs by as much as 40%, especially in hot climates like Sacramento. Another effective trick is painting or coating your roof with lighter shades. Lighter roofing reflects more sunlight and absorbs less heat, which can make a big difference in keeping your home cooler and reducing the need for air conditioning.

7. Check in on Your Neighbors

Finally, as the heat builds, don’t forget to check in on neighbors, particularly older people or vulnerable people who may be more susceptible to heat-related illnesses. Sometimes, all it takes is a friendly knock on the door to make sure someone is staying safe and cool.

By following these tips, you can stay comfortable, save money, and make sure you’re doing your part to reduce energy use this summer. And as always, a little kindness toward your community goes a long way!

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