1. Embrace Smart Shades and Blinds

One of the easiest ways to keep your home cool is by managing the sunlight that enters through your windows. Smart shades and blinds can be programmed to automatically close during the hottest parts of the day, blocking out the sun’s intense rays and reducing heat gain. These shades can be controlled remotely via an app or voice command. By using smart shades, you can significantly lower the temperature inside your house and reduce the need for air conditioning. Right now, we recommend shades from Lutron. We can help you choose the right shades for your space and can professionally install them.

2. Utilize Smart Thermostats

Smart thermostats, like Ecobee, are a game-changer for maintaining an optimal temperature in your home. These devices learn your schedule and preferences, automatically adjusting the temperature to ensure comfort while maximizing energy efficiency. During peak summer heat, a smart thermostat can raise the temperature slightly when you’re away, reducing energy consumption. When you’re home, it can cool the house down just in time for your return. This not only keeps your home comfortable but also saves on cooling costs.

3. Close Off Unused Rooms

Cooling your entire home can be unnecessary and costly if there are rooms you rarely use. By closing the doors to these rooms and their vents, you can prevent cool air from circulating into areas where it’s not needed, focusing your cooling efforts on the spaces you use most. This simple step can make a noticeable difference in the overall temperature and efficiency of your cooling system.

4. Switch to Cooling Sheets for Your Bed

Sleeping comfortably during a hot Michigan night can be challenging. Investing in cooling sheets made from breathable materials like bamboo can help regulate your body temperature while you sleep. These sheets wick away moisture and allow for better air circulation, ensuring a cooler and more comfortable night’s rest.

5. Set Ceiling Fans to Rotate Counter-Clockwise

Ceiling fans can be a great way to keep air circulating in your home, but it’s essential to use them correctly. In the summer, set your ceiling fans to rotate counter-clockwise. This direction pushes air down, creating a wind-chill effect that makes you feel cooler. This can allow you to set your thermostat a few degrees higher without sacrificing comfort, further reducing your energy consumption.

6. Evaluate Your Home’s Insulation

If you find that your home struggles to stay cool despite your best efforts, it might be time to evaluate your home’s insulation. Poor insulation can allow cool air to escape and hot air to enter, making your cooling system work overtime. Consider having a professional assess your insulation and recommend improvements. Proper insulation can make a significant difference in maintaining a consistent indoor temperature and improving energy efficiency.

Final Thoughts

Keeping your home cool during a Michigan summer doesn’t have to be a constant battle. By incorporating smart technology like shades and thermostats, making simple changes like closing off unused rooms and switching to cooling sheets, and ensuring your ceiling fans are set correctly, you can create a comfortable living environment. Additionally, evaluating and improving your home’s insulation can provide long-term benefits, helping you stay cool all summer long while also reducing energy costs. Enjoy the summer months with these practical tips, and keep your home an oasis of cool comfort.