How Do I Keep My Home Cooler?

Keeping your home cool becomes a top priority when the Minnesota summer heat kicks in. But blasting your air conditioner 24/7 isn’t the only answer—and it can drive up your energy bills fast.

At MD’s Heating and Air Services, we help homeowners stay comfortable and efficient with professional AC repair, installation, and maintenance. Whether your goal is better airflow, reduced energy use, or just staying cool without the sweat, here’s a practical guide on how to keep your home cooler without overworking your system.

1. Start with AC Maintenance

Before diving into DIY tricks, ensure your air conditioning system is up to the task. A properly maintained unit runs more efficiently, cools faster, and saves energy.

Key maintenance tasks include:

Changing or cleaning air filters monthly
Cleaning coils and condensate lines
Checking refrigerant levels
Inspecting the thermostat for accuracy

If it’s been a while since your last tune-up, schedule professional AC maintenance with a trusted HVAC company like MD’s Heating and Air Services. This small investment pays off in lower energy bills and fewer AC repair calls down the road.

2. Upgrade to a Programmable or Smart Thermostat

A smart thermostat helps you stay cool without wasting energy. It adjusts automatically based on your schedule, outdoor temperatures, and usage habits.

Many newer models can even detect when you're home and adjust settings accordingly—perfect for optimizing heating and cooling in MN, where temps can vary drastically in a single day.

3. Use Ceiling Fans Wisely

Fans don’t lower the air temperature, but they do make you feel cooler by circulating air and enhancing evaporation from your skin.

Pro tip: In summer, set ceiling fans to spin counterclockwise to push air downward. Just remember to turn them off when you leave the room—they only help people, not the space itself.

4. Block Out Heat with Curtains and Blinds

Sunlight streaming through windows can quickly heat up your home, especially in the afternoon. Use blackout curtains, thermal shades, or even basic blinds to reflect solar heat and keep indoor temperatures down.

Target south- and west-facing windows for the biggest impact.

5. Seal Leaks and Improve Insulation

Hot air can sneak in (and cool air can escape) through tiny gaps around windows, doors, and ductwork. Seal those leaks to help your cooling system work more effectively.

Use caulk or weatherstripping around windows and doors
Add insulation to your attic if needed
Have a pro inspect your ductwork for air leaks during regular HVAC maintenance

Even a new HVAC installation won't operate at full potential if your home is poorly sealed.

6. Limit Heat-Generating Activities During the Day

Appliances like ovens, stoves, dishwashers, and dryers add unnecessary heat during peak hours. Instead:

Cook outdoors on the grill or use a microwave
Run appliances in the early morning or late evening
Consider LED lighting, which emits less heat than incandescent bulbs

Simple adjustments can reduce the need for constant cooling.

7. Use Dehumidifiers to Feel Cooler

In Minnesota’s humid summers, moisture in the air makes it feel hotter than it is. A dehumidifier helps remove excess moisture, making your home feel more comfortable at a higher temperature setting.

Many newer AC units include humidity controls, especially when installed as part of a whole-home HVAC installation.

8. Consider an AC Upgrade

If your current system is more than 10–15 years old, it may not be as efficient as newer models. Today’s ENERGY STAR® systems cool better while using less energy.

A new AC installation with the right SEER (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio) rating can significantly cut your cooling costs. Our team at MD’s Heating and Air Services can recommend the best fit for your home and budget.

When to Call in a Professional

If your AC is:

Blowing warm air
Running constantly without cooling
Making unusual noises
Causing high utility bills

…it’s time to contact your local HVAC company for AC repair or evaluation. Prompt service can prevent small problems from turning into major expenses.

Stay Cool with Help from MD’s Heating and Air Services

Keeping your home cooler during Minnesota’s warmest months doesn’t have to mean sky-high utility bills or complicated upgrades. Start with simple habits, and when your system needs a boost, trust the local pros at MD’s Heating and Air Services.

Contact us today to schedule your AC service, maintenance check, or new system consultation—and enjoy cool, reliable comfort all season long.