Summer Cooling Tips for Your Home

As summer heats up in the Pacific Northwest, keeping your home cool and comfortable isn’t just about comfort—it’s also about energy efficiency. Over the years of helping clients buy and sell homes, I’ve picked up a few strategies for beating the heat indoors. Here are my favorite practical, homeowner-tested ways to keep your place pleasant during those warm months:

1. Use Window Coverings Wisely

If your windows face the afternoon sun (especially west-facing), close blinds or curtains during the day to keep heat out. Reflective or blackout curtains are worth considering for those “sun magnet” rooms—they really do help!

2. Minimize Indoor Heat Sources

Try to avoid using ovens or stovetops during the hottest parts of the day (it’s the perfect excuse for grilling outside!). And if you haven’t switched to LED lights yet, now’s a great time—they put out less heat and use less power.

3. Get Smart With Ventilation

Open windows on opposite sides of your home for cross-ventilation—this creates a natural breeze and cools down the house. In the evenings, open up to let in cooler air, then close things up in the morning to trap that chill.

4. Optimize Your Fans

Ceiling fans should rotate counterclockwise in summer (fun fact: clockwise in winter helps keep heat down where you want it!). Portable and window fans are great, too—set them up to move air through your home, and consider a box fan in the hallway for max effect. I’m a big fan (pun intended) of Vornado for powerful air circulation.

5. Create Shade Inside & Out

Outdoors: Planting trees or adding awnings can make a real difference, especially on the west side.

Indoors: Place a few leafy houseplants near windows—they look great and help with shade and air quality.

6. Be Strategic With Cooling Systems

If you use AC, set your thermostat higher (around 78º) when you’re away to save energy.

Programmable thermostats can automate this. In smaller spaces, portable ACs or evaporative coolers are worth a look.

7. Insulation & Sealing Matter

Proper insulation—especially in attics and walls—prevents heat from sneaking in. Check for gaps or cracks around doors and windows to keep that cool air where it belongs.

I’ve seen these tips make a big difference for clients (and in my own home). A few smart changes can keep you more comfortable all summer, cut down on energy bills, and even boost your home’s appeal if you’re thinking of selling. And if you ever need a referral to a great local HVAC pro or have questions about maximizing your home’s efficiency, just let me know—I’m happy to help!

Stay cool out there and enjoy your Pacific Northwest summer!