Calgary summers may be short, but those hot stretches can have us all looking for ways to keep our homes comfortable without sending our energy bills soaring.
Whether you have central air conditioning or rely on fans and a good breeze, a few simple changes can make a big difference.
🪟 Block the Heat Before It Gets In
One of the easiest ways to keep your home cooler is to manage sunlight.
✔ Close blinds and curtains during peak afternoon heat ✔ Consider blackout or thermal curtains for sunny rooms ✔ Open windows early morning and late evening when temperatures drop ✔ Keep windows closed during the hottest part of the day
A cooler home starts by keeping the heat outside.
🌬️ Make Your Fans Work Smarter
Fans don’t actually cool the air they help move it.
Try: ✔ Setting ceiling fans to rotate counterclockwise in summer ✔ Placing fans near cooler evening air sources ✔ Turning fans off when you leave the room to save energy
❄️ Have Air Conditioning? Use It Efficiently
Small adjustments can help control cooling costs:
✔ Avoid setting your thermostat extremely low your system won’t cool faster, it will just run longer ✔ Change your furnace/AC filter regularly ✔ Keep vents open and clear of furniture ✔ Use a programmable thermostat to adjust temperatures when you’re away
🌿 Don’t Forget Outside Your Home
Your exterior can help too!
✔ Add shade with trees, umbrellas, or patio coverings ✔ Keep doors closed as much as possible ✔ Avoid running ovens, dryers, and heat-producing appliances during the hottest hours
🏡 Thinking Long-Term?
Energy-efficient windows, improved insulation, smart thermostats, and updated HVAC systems can improve everyday comfort and may also be features future buyers appreciate.
A few small changes today can help you enjoy a cooler, more comfortable home all summer long. ☀️