When July rolls into South Georgia and North Florida, the heat doesn’t just show up—it moves in and stays a while.

Around here, we know what it means to sweat through the morning paper or watch the porch fan spin just fast enough to keep the bugs at bay. But even when the temperatures soar, your home should still feel like a place of comfort and ease.

Whether you’re a first-time homeowner or you’ve lived in your place for years, here are my go-to ways to help your home beat the heat and keep your energy bills in check—without sacrificing that sweet Southern charm.

How to Keep Your House Cool in the Summer Without Cranking the AC

1. Seal Drafts and Insulate Where It Counts

One of the most overlooked causes of a hot, inefficient home is poor insulation and air leaks. Cool air can slip out through cracks around windows, doors, attic openings, and even electrical outlets. Grab some caulk, foam sealant, or weatherstripping and plug up those trouble spots. In older Southern homes, this can make a world of difference.

Pro tip: If your home feels drafty even with the AC on, schedule a home energy audit. It’s a smart investment and often leads to lower monthly bills.

2. Use Ceiling Fans the Right Way

Ceiling fans are practically a Southern staple—but many folks don’t realize that the direction of the blades matters. In the summer, your fan should spin counterclockwise to push cooler air down. This helps your room feel cooler, allowing you to bump up your thermostat a few degrees without losing comfort.

Reminder: Ceiling fans cool people, not rooms. Turn them off when you leave to save energy.

3. Keep the Sun Out with Smart Window Solutions

Sunlight streaming through the windows might look pretty, but it also heats up your house fast. Use blackout curtains, solar shades, or blinds—especially on south- and west-facing windows—to reduce indoor temperatures. Even better, consider planting trees or tall shrubs outside those windows for long-term, natural shade.

4. Cook Outside or Plan No-Heat Meals

Nothing heats up a kitchen faster than the oven. On scorching days, fire up the grill or whip up something simple like a summer salad, sandwich spread, or slow cooker meal. Outdoor cooking is one of the best parts of Southern summer life—just add sweet tea and some citronella candles.

5. Maintain Your AC and Change Air Filters Regularly

Your HVAC system is doing heavy lifting all summer long. Help it work more efficiently by replacing air filters every 30–60 days. Clogged filters restrict airflow, force your system to run longer, and can even shorten its lifespan.

Helpful hint: If your AC is over 10 years old or struggling to keep up, a tune-up or system upgrade may be worth considering. Energy-efficient models could qualify for rebates or financing.

6. Upgrade to a Smart Thermostat

Smart thermostats are a great way to save on energy without giving it a second thought. Set schedules based on your routine, and some models can even learn your habits and adjust automatically.

Optimal setting: Experts recommend keeping your thermostat at 78°F when you’re home and bumping it up to 85°F when you’re away.

7. Create a Summer Comfort Plan for the Whole Family

Keep a few key items on hand to help everyone stay cool:

• Lightweight, breathable bedding and curtains

• Refillable water bottles and cold snacks in the fridge

• Battery-powered fans for power outages

• A designated shady spot outdoors with seating and airflow

This turns your home into a summer-ready retreat, even when temperatures hit triple digits.

FAQs: Southern Summer Home Comfort

Q: What’s the best temperature to set my thermostat during a Southern summer?

A: Aim for 78°F when you’re home and 85°F when you’re away. Use ceiling fans to make the space feel cooler.

Q: Can energy-efficient upgrades really make a difference?

A: Yes! Insulation, smart thermostats, and efficient windows all lower your energy usage—and in many cases, they increase your home’s value.

Q: Are there mortgage options for home improvements?

A: Absolutely. Some loan programs allow you to roll energy upgrades into your mortgage. I’m happy to walk you through options like FHA 203(k) or Energy Efficient Mortgages.

Southern summers are as much a part of life here as rocking chairs and lightning bugs. With a little planning and a few updates, your home can stay cool, calm, and collected—even when July’s heat is knocking on the door.

Need advice on home upgrades or considering a new place altogether? Let’s talk at www.SpringHenry.com.