Doesn’t it seem like summers just keep getting hotter? Every year, we reach a new record temperature… and every year, those energy bills just keep climbing higher and higher.

Of course, there really isn’t any time of year when you don’t want to see the numbers on your energy bills go down a little. But in the throes of a heat wave, the choice between keeping your home comfortably cool and sweating it out to save some money can be a tough one.

 We’ve compiled some tips to help keep out the heat, to keep your home and wallet feeling a little more comfortable this summer.,

Pay attention to colors

 Possibly the most affordable adjustment you can make: paying close attention to the colors you use on your blinds, drapes, and curtains.

 While black or dark-colored curtains might do a great job keeping your room dark, helping you sleep in a few extra hours on the weekend, they’re not doing your energy bills any favors. That’s because darker colors absorb light, and therefore heat.

Making the switch to light-colored curtains– or even neutral-colored curtains with a white backing– can make a noticeable difference in the temperature of your home. Instead of absorbing light and heat, white fabric reflects it, keeping it out of your home. 

Curtain color might seem like a negligible factor when it comes to your home’s overall temperature, but according to the Department of Energy, taking advantage of light-reflecting curtains can reduce heat gain by up to 77%. 

Time for an update

Has it been a while since you’ve replaced the doors and windows in your home? If it’s been a while, and things are  looking a little dingy and outdated, there’s a good chance that your doors and windows aren’t as well-insulated as they should be.

It’s been proven that a brand-new front door can increase your home’s curb appeal– and therefore sale value– by thousands of dollars. But an energy-efficient new door can also help to insulate your home, keeping the cool air inside and saving you money.

If you’re not in the market for a new door right now, or simply don’t have the budget for it, you can do some DIY updates to make it more energy-efficient anyway. 

Check for gaps and air leaks, and utilize weatherstripping and caulking to create a tighter seal. A well-sealed door also has the added benefit of keeping insects out of your home!

It’s also important to make sure your windows are well-insulated– old or poorly-installed windows can have a major effect on your home’s heat gain in the summertime. If you’re replacing your windows, look into glass or glass coatings that block UV rays.

Keep it shady

 Unobstructed sun blasting through your home’s windows all day is naturally going to contribute to heat gain, even if you’ve got new windows and light-reflecting curtains. After all, heating things up is the sun’s job.

But there are plenty of creative ways you can shade your home from the heat. Installing awnings to protect and shade your windows and doors can further reduce energy bills.

Planting trees, hedges, and shrubs around your home can also help provide some relief from the sun.

Get an expert opinion

If you’d like to bring down those energy costs, but aren’t sure where to start, you can’t go wrong with consulting a design expert here at Kaufman By Design.  

We know the ins and outs of home improvement, and we’d be happy to help you find a solution that’s perfect for your needs– and your budget. Give us a call or stop by today to get started!