How to Keep an Old House Cool Without Spending a Fortune

Growing up in an old house, I can attest to the fact that they can be downright unbearable during the summer months. High ceilings are often paired with large windows and architectural details like moldings and built-in shelving that only further contribute to the heat. As a kid, I spent many a night sleeping on the sopping wet grass in our backyard just to escape the thick, humid air inside our home.

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If you live in an older home and are struggling to keep it cool during the summer, don’t despair. Here are 10 tips that can help you beat the heat without breaking the bank.

1. Close Your Curtains and Blinds

This may seem like a no-brainer, but it’s worth repeating: keeping your curtains and blinds closed during the day will help to block out the sun’s heat. This is especially important for windows that face west or south, as these windows will receive the most direct sunlight during the day. You can also hang blackout curtains for extra protection during the day.

2. Open Your Windows at Night

When the sun goes down, open your windows to let Cool air in. If you have multiple windows in one room, create a cross-breeze by opening windows on opposite sides of the room. Leaving your windows open overnight is another effective way to cool your house down since the temperature outside tends to drop at night.

3. Use Fans

Fans are a great way to circulate the air in your home and make it feel cooler. Ceiling fans, box fans, and portable fans are all effective options, and can be supplemented with units that spray water to cool the air. If you’re on a budget that doesn’t allow for purchasing fans, you can also use a cardboard box and build a makeshift A/C unit with a fan attached to it. Fill freezer-safe containers with water and freeze them before placing them in front of the fan.

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4. Insulate Your Attic

If your attic isn’t properly insulated, it can be a major source of heat gain in your home. Adding insulation to your attic will help to keep the heat out in the summer and the cold out in the winter. Long sleeves and pants may need to be worn when working in the attic. Handheld and battery-powered lanterns are ideal for lighting due to limited outlet access in an attic.

5. Plant Trees and Shrubs

Trees and shrubs can help to shade your home from the sun and reduce heat gain. Plant trees on the west and south sides of your home, where they will provide the most shade. Deciduous trees lose their leaves in the winter, which allows the sun’s heat in during the coldest months. Avoid planting these trees near your home. Evergreens, on the other hand, retain their leaves year-round and can continue to provide shade in the summer and act as windbreakers during the winter.

6. Install Awnings or Solar Screens

Awnings and solar screens are another effective way to reduce heat gain through your windows. Awnings are installed over windows to block out the sun, while solar screens are a type of fabric that is attached to the outside of windows. Both awnings and solar screens can help to reduce the amount of heat that enters your home through your windows by as much as 70%.

7. Seal Air Leaks

Air leaks around windows, doors, and other openings can let in hot air and increase your cooling costs. Seal these leaks with weatherstripping, caulk, or expanding foam. Be sure to check around pipes and wires as well, as these are common areas for air leaks. Unwanted insects, rodents, and, in some cases, dangerous pests or wildlife can enter your home through these leaks as well.

8. Turn Off Lights and Electronics When Not in Use

Lights and electronics generate heat, so turning them off when you’re not using them can help to cool down your home. Unplug phone chargers and other electronic accessories that continue draining energy even when not in use. Both actions reduce the amount of heat coming from your electronics, with the added benefit of saving energy, which can lower your utility bills.

9. Do Laundry and Wash Dishes at Night

The heat from your washer and dryer can make your home feel even hotter during the summer months. If possible, do laundry and wash dishes at night when it’s cooler outside. You will avoid the added heat in your home during peak daytime temperatures and take advantage of lower utility rates offered during off-peak hours.

10. Cook Outdoors

Cooking indoors can add a lot of heat to your home, so consider cooking outdoors on the grill or in a slow cooker on the back porch during the summer months. This will help to keep your home cooler and more comfortable.

Expert Tips

In addition to the tips above, here are a few expert tips for keeping your old house cool in the summer:

Use energy-efficient appliances and light bulbs.
Install a programmable thermostat to automatically adjust the temperature when you’re away.
Consider installing a whole-house fan to circulate air throughout your home.
Make sure your air conditioning unit is properly sized and maintained.

FAQ

Q: Why is my old house so hot?

A: There are a number of reasons why your old house may be so hot. Poor insulation, lack of air conditioning, and air leaks are all common culprits. Additionally, older homes often have large windows that allow in a lot of heat.

Q: What is the most cost-effective way to cool my old house?

A: The most cost-effective way to cool your old house is to start with the basics: close your curtains and blinds, open your windows at night, and use fans to circulate the air. If you need additional cooling, consider installing a programmable thermostat or a whole-house fan.

Q: How can I reduce heat gain through my windows?

A: There are a number of ways to reduce heat gain through your windows. Install awnings or solar screens, seal air leaks around windows, and plant trees and shrubs to shade your home from the sun.