Budget-Friendly Ways to Keep Your Apartment Cool in the Summer Months

A dog on a couch, with a fan blowing. An affordable way to keep an apartment cool.

Summer in the city can be a real scorcher, and for those of us living in apartments, keeping cool without breaking the bank can be a huge challenge. Air conditioning can be expensive and not always an option for everyone. However, there are plenty of budget-friendly ways to keep your apartment cool and comfortable during those hot summer months. Here’s how you can beat the heat without draining your wallet.

Use Your Windows

Windows are notorious for letting heat enter your apartment. Small changes can make a huge difference in your indoor temperature.

  • Use blackout curtains – Investing in blackout curtains can keep the sun’s heat from entering your apartment. These curtains are made of thick, heavy material that blocks out sunlight, keeping your room cooler. They are particularly effective if you live on the top floor or if your windows receive direct sunlight for a huge portion of the day.
  • Try reflective window film – Applying reflective window film reduces heat by reflecting sunlight away from your windows. This film is easy to install, affordable, and can be found at most hardware stores. It keeps your apartment cooler and adds a layer of privacy.
  • Open windows at night – Take advantage of cooler nighttime temperatures by opening your windows during the evening. Make sure your windows have screens to keep bugs out and consider using a fan to create a cross-breeze by placing it near the window to pull in cool air.

Fans and Ventilation

Fans are a cost-effective way to circulate air and keep your apartment comfortable. Here are a few you could try.

  • Ceiling fans – If your apartment has ceiling fans, make sure they rotate counterclockwise. This setting pushes the air down, creating a breeze that makes the room feel cooler.
  • Box fans and oscillating fans – Box fans and oscillating fans are inexpensive and can be moved around your apartment as needed. Place a box fan in a window to pull in cooler air from outside, or position an oscillating fan to circulate air throughout your living space.
  • Create a DIY air conditioner – If the above options don’t work for you, you could always make a DIY air conditioner using a fan and a bowl of ice. Place the bowl of ice in front of the fan, and as the ice melts, the fan will blow cool air into the room. It’s a simple and effective way to beat the heat.

Using Appliances Wisely

Appliances can generate a lot of heat, so using them wisely can help keep your apartment cool.

  • Be smart with cooking – Avoid using the oven and stove during the hottest parts of the day. Opt for no-cook meals, use the microwave, or consider an outdoor grill if you can access one. Slow cookers and instant pots are also great alternatives to ovens as they produce less heat.
  • Unplug electronics – Electronics generate heat even when they’re not in use. Unplug devices such as chargers, computers, and televisions when you don’t need them. This will reduce the heat load and save energy.
  • Use energy-efficient light bulbs – Traditional incandescent bulbs can generate a lot of heat. Switching to energy-efficient LED bulbs will reduce the heat emitted and save on your electricity bill. A win-win!

Cooling Your Body

Sometimes, the best way to stay cool is to cool yourself down directly.

  • Wear light clothing – Dress in lightweight, breathable fabrics such as cotton and linen. These materials allow your skin to breathe and help wick away sweat.
  • Stay hydrated – Drink plenty of water throughout the day. Staying hydrated helps regulate your body temperature and keeps you feeling cooler.
  • Try cool showers and wet cloths – Take cool showers to lower your body temperature. If the heat is unbearable, you can also apply a wet cloth or use a spray bottle filled with water to mist your skin. This will cool you down quickly.

Finding a Cooler Apartment

Sometimes, the best way to stay cool in the summer is to find a better apartment setup. Small, box-like apartments can often hold in heat. If you’re looking for a new place, here are some things to consider.

  • Use roommate-matching websites to find a cooler apartment – SpareRoom is a roommate-matching website that helps you find the perfect living situation. You can filter your search based on your preferences.
  • Look for bills included – When searching for a new place, look for listings that include utilities in the rent. This budget-friendly option allows you to use the air conditioning without worrying about a sky-high electric bill. Plus, splitting costs with a roommate can make it even more affordable.
  • Roommates with the same preferences – Using SpareRoom, you can find roommates who share your preference for keeping the apartment cool. Whether you’re looking for rooms to rent in San Diego or another warm place, SpareRoom has got you covered. Click to visit SpareRoom and find the perfect living situation.

Additional Tips for Keeping Cool

  • Houseplants – Certain houseplants, like ferns and palms, can help cool the air through transpiration. They also add a touch of green to your living space.
  • Shade Cloths – If you have a balcony or outdoor space, consider using shade cloths. These can reduce the amount of direct sunlight entering your apartment, keeping it cooler.
  • Ice Packs – Use ice packs or frozen gel packs to cool down your bed before sleeping. Place them in your sheets a few minutes before bed, and enjoy a cooler night’s sleep.
  • Limit Heat-Producing Activities – Try to avoid activities that generate a lot of heat, such as using the oven during the peak heat of the day. Instead, schedule these tasks for early morning or late evening when it’s cooler.

Conclusion

Keeping your apartment cool during the summer months doesn’t have to be expensive. With a few smart strategies and some creativity, you can enjoy a comfortable living space without breaking the bank.


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