How to Keep Your Rental Cool This Summer
2 min read.
When summer temperatures rise, keeping your rental cool and comfortable can feel difficult — especially if you want to avoid running the air conditioning all day. Fortunately, a few simple habits can help reduce indoor heat, improve airflow, and make your space feel much more comfortable during summer weather.
Block the Sun During the Day
Sunlight streaming through windows can quickly heat up a room. Keep blinds, curtains, or shades closed during the hottest and sunniest parts of the day to help reduce indoor temperatures. Blackout curtains, thermal curtains, or removable heat-blocking window film can help keep rooms cooler while also reducing glare and UV exposure.
Let Cooler Air in at Night
Take advantage of cooler evening temperatures by opening windows at night or early in the morning. Creating a cross-breeze by opening windows on opposite sides of your space can help circulate fresh air throughout your home. Once outdoor temperatures begin rising, close the windows to help keep the cooler air inside.
Use Fans Effectively
Fans are one of the easiest ways to improve comfort during summer. Ceiling fans should rotate counterclockwise in warmer months to push air downward and create a cooling effect. Portable or tower fans can also help move air through stuffier rooms.
Reduce Heat from Cooking and Appliances
Ovens, dryers, electronics, and other everyday devices can add extra heat to your home, especially during the hottest parts of the day. Try preparing lighter meals that require little or no cooking, and use appliances like ovens or dryers later in the evening when temperatures are cooler. Outdoor grilling, air fryers, and slow cookers can also reduce heat buildup in the kitchen. Turning off or unplugging unused electronics such as laptops, gaming systems, chargers, and televisions further reduces unnecessary warmth while improving energy efficiency throughout your space.
Focus Cooling Where You Need It Most
Heavy fabrics can make warm nights feel even hotter. Switching to lightweight cotton or linen bedding allows better airflow and can help improve comfort while sleeping. If certain rooms stay cooler than others, focus your airflow and cooling efforts there. Closing doors to unused rooms can also help prevent warm air from spreading throughout the apartment. By making a few smart changes to your daily routine to manage heat and airflow, you can stay comfortable in your rental and make the most of the summer season.
References
Avenue Living Communities. (2025, August 21). Beat the heat: Hot tips for a cool apartment. https://www.avenueliving.ca/blogs/beat-the-heat-hot-tips-for-a-cool-apartment
Pacific Northwest National Laboratory. (2023, August 22). How to prepare your home for summer heat waves. https://www.pnnl.gov/news-media/how-prepare-your-home-summer-heat-waves
Save Energy NB. (2023, June). 10 ways to stay cool at home this summer. https://saveenergynb.ca/en/education-and-tips/energy-efficiency-articles/10-ways-to-stay-cool-this-summer/
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