No air conditioner? Here are 6 simple ways to stay cool and cut your electricity bill this summer

As summer temperatures rise, many are looking for ways to stay comfortable without relying on air conditioning. Whether you are trying to reduce your energy bills or simply do not have access to AC, there are several effective and budget-friendly alternatives.

Here are six easy ways to keep your home cool this summer.

1. Use fans efficiently

Fans are an energy-efficient alternative to air conditioning, consuming about 1% of the electricity used by an AC unit, according to CNET. To maximize their cooling effect, ensure your ceiling fans are spinning counterclockwise during the summer months. This circulation forces hot air upward, helping the room feel cooler.

Prof. Mike Tipton from the University of Portsmouth, U.K., also recommended fanning your entire body, not just your face, to reduce your temperature. However, when temperatures exceed 35°C, fans may not provide relief and could circulate hot air instead.

For additional cooling, try placing a standing fan next to a bowl of ice water. The fan will blow cool air toward you, providing a refreshing breeze. You can also use a window fan to push hot air out of your room.

Fans consume about 1% of the electricity used by an AC unit. Photo from Pexels

2. Swap out your light bulbs

Incandescent light bulbs generate heat, contributing to the warmth in your home. Replacing them with energy-efficient compact fluorescent lights (CFLs) or LEDs can reduce the heat and save energy.

CFLs use 75% less energy and last 10 times longer, while LEDs consume 80% less energy and last 25 times longer, Marla Mock, vice president of operations for air conditioning company Aire Serv, told Realtor.com.

By making the switch, you will not only reduce heat but also save on your electricity bill.

3. Block out the daytime sun

During the hottest part of the day, keep windows shut and blinds or curtains drawn, particularly on the side of the house that faces the sun.

Blackout curtains can prevent your room from heating up by blocking sunlight and reflecting heat. This simple step will also help cut down on the need for air conditioning.

4. Limit appliance use

Certain household appliances, such as dryers, dishwashers, and ovens, can generate significant heat.

To avoid adding unnecessary warmth to your home, try running these appliances during cooler hours, such as late at night. Air-drying clothes can also help keep temperatures down during especially hot days.

5. Cool yourself down

A lukewarm shower can help lower your body temperature without wasting energy. "The trick is to try and get the skin as cool as possible whilst maintaining maximum blood flow to it," Tipton told BBC. "Too cold and the body will shut down blood to the skin and trap the heat in the body making it harder to get out."

6. Wear the right clothes

Clothing plays an essential role in regulating your body temperature. Wear loose-fitting clothes made from natural fibers like cotton or linen, which help keep your body cool by allowing it to breathe. These materials allow for better airflow, keeping you comfortable in the heat.

At night, consider using cooling sheets made from breathable fabrics like organic cotton, linen, or bamboo. These materials wick away moisture and help you stay cool while you sleep.