Summer heat waves can be brutal on both your comfort and your wallet. When temperatures soar, it’s tempting to blast the air conditioning and worry about the electric bill later. But there are smarter, more budget-friendly ways to stay cool during extreme heat.
Air conditioning accounts for about 12% of annual household energy spending, with costs spiking dramatically during heat waves when systems work overtime. The good news? You don’t have to choose between comfort and your budget.
Here are five proven strategies to beat the heat without breaking the bank:
1. Optimize your air conditioning efficiency
Before cranking your AC to arctic levels, make sure it’s working as efficiently as possible. Set your thermostat to 26°C when you’re home and 29°C when you’re away. Every degree higher can save you 6-8% on cooling costs.
Replace or clean your air filter monthly during peak cooling season. A dirty filter makes your system work harder, driving up energy consumption. Also, use ceiling fans to circulate cool air, allowing you to raise the thermostat a few degrees while maintaining the same comfort level.
2. Block out the heat
Prevention is often cheaper than correction. Close blinds, curtains, or shades on south- and west-facing windows during the hottest parts of the day. This simple step can reduce indoor temperatures by several degrees.
Consider investing in blackout curtains or reflective window film for rooms that get intense afternoon sun. While there’s an upfront cost, the energy savings can pay for these improvements within a season or two.
3. Create strategic ventilation
Take advantage of cooler nighttime and early morning temperatures by opening windows and using fans to pull in fresh air. Close everything up before the day heats up to trap the cooler air inside.
Box fans positioned in windows can be surprisingly effective. Place them to pull hot air out of your home during the evening and bring cool air in during early morning hours. This natural cooling method costs just pennies compared to running AC all night.
4. Use water for cooling relief
Water-based cooling methods are incredibly cost-effective. Take cool showers or baths to lower your body temperature quickly. Keep a spray bottle filled with cold water handy for instant relief.
Soak towels in cold water and place them on your neck, wrists, or ankles where blood vessels are close to the skin. You can also freeze wet washcloths for an even more intense cooling effect that costs virtually nothing.
5. Time your activities wisely
Avoid using heat-generating appliances during the hottest parts of the day. Run your dishwasher, washing machine, and dryer in the evening or early morning. Cook outdoors when possible, or use smaller appliances like microwaves and slow cookers that generate less heat than your oven.
Remember, staying cool during a heat wave doesn’t require extreme measures or sky-high utility bills. Small adjustments to how you manage your home’s temperature can add up to significant savings while keeping you comfortable and safe.
What heat wave survival strategies have worked best for you? Share your money-saving cooling tips with the Shop Talk community!
Did you know? Community cooling
Many cities across Canada offer free cooling centres during heat waves at libraries, community centres, and shopping malls. These public spaces provide free air conditioning during the hottest days, allowing you to give your home AC a break while staying comfortable. Some locations even offer special programs for seniors or families with young children during extreme heat events.