How to Stay Cool in the Heat: Smart Home & HVAC Tips for Summer Comfort
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Updated: June 2026
Summer in New Jersey means sunshine, humidity, and serious heat. Whether you're coming back from the shore or just trying to relax at home, indoor comfort matters most when temps hit the 90s. If you're wondering how to stay cool in the heat, it's not just about lowering your thermostat. It's about using your home and HVAC system efficiently. Here are practical, effective tips to keep your house cool in summer without driving up your energy bill.
How Cool Should My House Be If It's 90+ Degrees Outside?
When outdoor temps climb past 90°F, a good rule of thumb is to keep your indoor temperature no more than 20°F cooler than the outside, so around 72 to 78°F. Going lower forces your system to work harder, potentially increasing energy costs significantly. If your AC struggles to maintain that range during a heat wave, it may be time for a tune-up or inspection.
What Temperature Makes a House Unlivable?
Indoor temperatures above 90°F can become dangerous, especially for young children, elderly residents, and pets. At 95°F or above, the risk of heat exhaustion and heat stroke rises quickly. If your home can't cool below these levels, don't wait. Call a professional immediately.
What Runs Up Your Electric Bill the Most in the Summer?
Your air conditioner is typically the single largest contributor to a high summer electric bill, accounting for roughly half of home energy use in warm months. Other major culprits include electric water heaters, clothes dryers, and ovens. The good news: smart thermostat settings, regular HVAC maintenance, and a few simple habits can meaningfully reduce what you're spending. Check out our guide on the ideal temperature for your house energy-wise for more details.
8 Stay Cool Summer Tips That Actually Work
1. Set Your Thermostat Smartly
A steady setting is key. Keep it around 78°F when home and raise it to 82 to 85°F when you're away. Upgrade to a smart thermostat for automatic scheduling, and avoid constant manual adjustments, since each degree lower can add roughly 3% to your cooling costs. One of the simplest tips for staying cool and saving money.
2. Use Ceiling Fans Correctly
Fans don't cool rooms, they cool people. Set blades to run counterclockwise in summer, use medium speed, and turn fans off when no one's in the room. Used correctly, they can make a space feel up to 4°F cooler, letting you raise the thermostat without sacrificing comfort.
3. Block Heat from Windows
Sunlight streaming through windows can raise indoor temps significantly. Use blackout curtains or thermal shades, close blinds during peak midday sun, and consider adding reflective window film to south- and west-facing windows. It's one way to feel an immediate impact, and you'll notice it the same day.
4. Seal Drafts and Air Leaks
Cool air escaping through gaps is wasted money. Check windows, doors, attic openings, and ductwork for leaks, and use caulk or weatherstripping to seal them. Even small gaps can make your system work significantly harder. For a full seasonal checklist, see our Warmer Weather HVAC Checklist.
5. Schedule an HVAC Tune-Up
Routine maintenance makes a real difference. A seasonal AC tune-up may improve efficiency, lower bills, and prevent mid-summer breakdowns. Technicians will check refrigerant levels, clean coils, inspect electrical components, and test overall system performance. If your AC struggles to keep up in high heat, an HVAC tune-up is essential.
6. Manage Humidity and Indoor Air Quality
High humidity makes your home feel hotter than it actually is, and New Jersey summers are notoriously humid. Change filters every one to three months, use a dehumidifier if needed, and keep vents clear of furniture and obstructions. Better airflow equals better cooling and better air quality. Learn more about what your indoor humidity should be in summer to find your ideal comfort range.
7. Limit Heat from Appliances
Ovens, dryers, and dishwashers all generate heat that your AC then has to counteract, running up your electric bill in the process. Grill outside when possible, use smaller countertop appliances for cooking, and run laundry and the dishwasher in the evening when outdoor temps drop. These small habit changes add up over a full summer.
8. Cool Down at Night
Evenings are your advantage. When outdoor temps drop below your indoor temp, open windows and use fans to pull in cooler air. Switch to lightweight, breathable bedding and close windows again in the morning before the heat builds. This is one of the easiest tips for staying cool at night, and it costs nothing.
When to Call an HVAC Pro
If your system runs constantly, can't reach the set temperature, or is causing unusually high energy bills, it's time for a professional inspection. Some issues, like low refrigerant, failing components, or duct leaks, can't be fixed with DIY adjustments. Schedule a service appointment and our team will get you sorted before the heat peaks. Learn more about Air Experts and what our technicians can do for your home.
Need Help Beating the Heat?
Still searching for how to stay cool in the heat this summer? Air Experts is here to help with AC repair and installation, seasonal HVAC tune-ups, and indoor air quality solutions.