Summer in the Capital Region is beautiful—but when temperatures soar, your utility bill doesn’t have to. Whether you’re a homeowner, a renter, or prepping your property for sale, keeping your home cool efficiently is key to comfort and cost savings.

1. Keep the Sun Out Strategically

Did you know up to 76% of sunlight that hits your windows becomes heat inside your home?

Try this:

• Close blinds or curtains during the hottest parts of the day, especially on south- and west-facing windows.

• Invest in thermal blackout curtains for bedrooms.

• Use window film or solar shades for extra insulation.

2. Use Ceiling Fans Wisely

Fans don’t cool air, but they do make you feel cooler by circulating it.

Hack:

• Set ceiling fans to rotate counterclockwise in summer.

• Turn them off when you leave a room—they work best when you’re in the breeze!

3. Maximize AC Efficiency

If you’re using central air or window units, make sure they’re pulling their weight.

Quick wins:

• Change air filters monthly.

• Keep vents unblocked by furniture or rugs.

• Seal gaps in ductwork or around window units.

Pro Move: Set your thermostat to 78°F when home—according to the Department of Energy, that’s the sweet spot for comfort and savings.

4. Leverage Landscaping for Long-Term Cooling

Trees and shrubs can block sunlight from hitting your roof, siding, and windows.

Local landscaping ideas:

• Plant deciduous trees on the west and south sides of your home.

• Use trellises with climbing vines like clematis or ivy.

• Add mulch to garden beds to retain moisture and reduce ground temperature.

5. Switch to Heat-Free Cooking

Ovens and stovetops can raise your indoor temp fast.

Try:

• Using the microwave, air fryer, or grill outside.

• Making no-cook meals like salads, wraps, or charcuterie boards.

• Batch-cooking early in the morning or after sunset.

Bonus: Outdoor cooking areas are also a buyer favorite—highlight them in listing photos!

6. Upgrade to LED Lighting

Incandescent bulbs give off heat—LEDs don’t.

Save energy and reduce indoor warmth by switching all bulbs to cool-spectrum LEDs. They also look great in staged spaces and last much longer.

7. Shut Doors (and Gaps!)

Close doors to unused rooms so you’re not cooling empty spaces. Also:

• Use draft stoppers at the base of doors.

• Weatherstrip doors and windows.

• Insulate attic access doors if you have central air.

8. Use a Smart Thermostat

Control your temperature from your phone, schedule temps around your work hours, and track savings over time.

Good for sellers too—buyers love smart home tech, especially energy-saving upgrades.

Bonus for Sellers: Keep Your Home Show-Ready in the Heat

If your home is on the market this summer:

• Keep the temperature comfortable (not cold!) for showings.

• Run fans for air circulation—stuffy homes feel smaller.

• Don’t forget scents: citrus or fresh linen candles keep the space summer-fresh.

Whether you’re sprucing up your home, prepping it for sale, or helping clients find their next space, these simple cooling hacks can make a big difference. Our agents live here, work here, and know what works best for Upstate NY homes.