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Step 1
Start outside your home. Strategically plant shade trees so that you block the hot afternoon sun that beams into your house. By just planting three trees around your house you can save between $100 and $200 annually.
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Step 2
Make use of the fans in your home. Ceiling fans will make your rooms feel cooler. You may also want to consider installing a solar powered attic fan, which will help to cool your home without using electricity.
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Step 3
Install light colored window shades or curtains throughout your house. Try to keep these shades closed, especially on windows which face the south and west.
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Step 4
Add caulking around windows and weather-stripping around doors.
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Step 5
Monitor your use of lighting and appliances, as ovens and lights will heat a house. Use a microwave when possible during the summer months. Turn off lights that you are not using. Put off dishwashing or drying clothes until the evening.
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Step 6
Consider replacing an old and less efficient air conditioning system with a new system that will do a better job of cooling your home.
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Step 7
Place awnings over south facing windows where you do not have shade trees.
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Step 8
Cook outside using your backyard grill. This is not only a great summer activity, but it will not heat the inside of your house.
