Happy homeowner opens window after learning how to keep your house cool

When it gets really hot during Wisconsin summers, there’s not always a good substitute for your air conditioner. But on those mildly warm days, there are some other tactics you can use to stay comfortable. The Carrier® experts at RJ Heating and Air Conditioning are here to help you understand how to keep your house cool without relying on your A/C. Read on to find our best cooling tips—and don’t forget to call with questions at 414-463-1140.

Natural Ways to Keep Your House Cool

1. Use Appliances at Night

Run heat-generating appliances—such as your dryer or oven—mostly at night if you can. Try line drying your laundry if possible. Or, instead of your oven and stove top, use an outdoor grill to cook your food and keep the temperature down inside.

2. Open Your Windows in the Evening

Temperatures typically drop at night, so take advantage and open your windows. Not only will this cool the inside of your house, but it will also provide natural ventilation and better air circulation.

3. Use Your Kitchen and Bathroom Exhaust Fans

If you aren’t in the habit of doing so, be sure to run your kitchen and bathroom exhaust fans while cooking or showering. This will help remove the warmer air generated by these activities before it circulates through your house and makes things feel stickier.

4. Run Your Ceiling Fans Counterclockwise

During the summer months, running your fan in a counterclockwise position will push your air down, creating a cooling effect. While fans don’t necessarily make your air cooler, they do move cool air around for a more comfortable feeling.

5. Install Exterior Shades

Install a pergola or awning outside above the windows that receive the most sun during the day. This will help block those warm UV rays and keep your home cooler and more comfortable during the day.

6. Be Mindful That Heat Rises

Heat always rises—so if you happen to live in a multilevel home, spend your daytime hours on the lower level if possible. The upper level will eventually cool as the day goes on.

7. Keep the Lights Off

If your light fixtures use incandescent light bulbs, keep them off as much as possible during the day. These bulbs generate heat, so minimizing their use will help keep your home just a couple of degrees cooler.

RJ Heating Handles All of Your Cooling Needs

Now that you know how to keep your house cool, you can better control your summertime comfort. However, if you still need cooling help, count on RJ Heating to provide A/C installation, repair, or maintenance. Call us with your questions today at 414-463-1140 or schedule an appointment online.