When temperatures rise, power bills may, too. According to the U.S. Energy Information Administration, about half of your monthly power use is devoted to heating and cooling your home. How can you cool your home more efficiently?

Install a Smart Thermostat

Smart thermostats are a wonder of modern technology. You can set different temperatures for various zones in your home, and set a second temperature for when you are away. Some models sense when you leave and change the temperature automatically to the “away” setting, which is perfect for people with erratic schedules. They can also sense when you are within a specified distance and reset to the “home” temperature so your house is cool by the time you walk in the door. Naturally, if you wish to adjust the thermostat remotely, you can do so with an app on your phone. These devices afford you exceptional comfort with no wasted energy.

Block the Sun

Sunlight can make a home feel cheerful; good lighting is powerful mood booster. However, in the summer, letting in too much sunlight can make your home miserably hot. Unfortunately, blackout curtains often make a home too dark and depressing. Get the best of both worlds with privacy shades Cypress that let soft light in but keep harsh heat out. They come in numerous fabrics and colors to suit your design style.

Augment Existing Insulation

Building codes often set a minimum level of insulation for homes, but your home will likely be much more comfortable if you exceed those minimums. Attics typically have room for additional insulation, and you can lay blanket insulation yourself quickly and affordably. Adding insulation should take just a weekend, and will keep you cooler for many summers to come.

Mount Fans

Moving air feels cooler than stagnant air, so install ceiling fans in your living room and bedrooms. Certain areas may not be properly cooled by your existing system, such as corner rooms or those with greater sun exposure. In that case, direct cooler air to those areas using box or oscillating fans.