Kids are out of school for summer break, and that means the temperature is rising in Northern California, especially if you live in the Sacramento or Roseville areas. If you’re like most homeowners, you find yourself in a constant battle between feeling cool and comfortable in your home and cringing when you picture how high your utility bill is going to be. Well, we’re here to help with a quick guide to staying cool and energy efficient this summer. With our extensive experience in real estate, we’ve learned that some smart upgrades can make a significant difference in terms of both cost and comfort. 

First, let’s explore some smart cooling solutions. If you’re running your air conditioner this summer (duh, most of us are), then you’ll definitely want to look into a programmable or smart thermostat. These futuristic control panels allow you to set heating and cooling schedules, as well as adjust the temperature remotely so you can save energy when no one’s home. Certain brands, like Nest and Ecobee, claim to save homeowners anywhere from 10 to 15% on their bills. 

Aside from smart thermostats, ceiling and whole-house fans are lifesavers in the summer. Fans circulate air continuously, using less energy and reducing the need to run the air conditioner constantly. These are ideal for early mornings and evenings when the outdoor temperature is a bit cooler, but by using them strategically, you can really reduce your energy use.

While cooling and air circulation methods are important in the summer, let’s not forget about the power of insulation and sealing. Have you heard of window film or low-e windows? Most people haven’t, but they are incredibly effective at reflecting heat and UV rays, keeping your home cooler longer. Window films are a simple, affordable, and peel-and-stick solution that can be purchased at your local hardware store, while low-e windows are a type of window that requires professional installation. Either way, you’ll definitely feel the difference.

Another inexpensive way to block afternoon heat is to use thermal curtains or shades. These are especially effective on West-facing windows during the Sacramento area’s hottest heat waves. 

While these are all energy-efficient changes you can make on the inside of your home, let’s not forget the things you can do on the outside. Planting trees or adding pergolas to your yard can create natural shade that keeps the sun’s hottest rays from reaching your home’s exterior walls. Plants also help cool down their surrounding environments by releasing water vapor into the air from their leaves. And adding these features acts as a double whammy because it boosts your home’s appearance and curb appeal, as well. 

It’s clear that homeowners in California can reap massive benefits from just a few small upgrades, helping to stay cool and save big on summer energy bills. If you’re planning renovations or considering a home sale, reach out to us! The team at Simple Real Estate is happy to advise on upgrades that boost comfort and home value.