Top Ways to Keep Your Home Cool in Sacramento Without Overworking Your AC

Sacramento summers aren’t just hot – they are relentless. With triple-digit temperatures, dry air, and long daylight hours, homes heat up faster and stay warm into the night. 

Even with the air conditioner running, many homeowners find their space barely comfortable. And when it is working overtime, you’re not racking up energy costs. You’re also wearing down your system. These conveniences can lead to costly air conditioner repairs in Sacramento. 

But even with so much effort, why is your home still heating up? And how to make your home cool in Sacramento? This blog will provide you with all the information you need to know. So keep reading till the end!

Why Sacramento Homes Heat Up So Fast?

Summers in Sacramento are intensely hot, with long hours of direct sunlight, dry air, and extreme daylight temperatures often soaring about 100 degrees Fahrenheit. Homes here heat up quickly because many are built with heat-absorbing materials, like dark roofs and stucco walls. 

The worst part? If there’s no insulation, that heat gets trapped fast and stays there!

Older homes often have single-pane windows, which offer little to no protection from solar radiation. Gaps around doors and windows let hot air seep in when the sun is at its peak. If you live in areas with almost no trees – just building blocks, it simply means there’s little natural shade to block the sun. 

Also, inside, things like electronics, lighting, cooking, etc., can cause this heat to rise noticeably. With all these heat sources, it’s no surprise your A/C is working overtime just to keep the temperature bearable. 

5 Ways To Keep Your Home Cooler Without Overworking Your A/C

Here are a few ways you can keep your home cooler without running your AC for long. 

Add Greeneries And Outdoor Awnings

Adding plants and trees outside your home can make a huge difference. Trees, tall shrubs, or even hanging plants near windows help block the sun and prevent the walls from heating up. Install an awning or shade sail – as they look nice and prevent your home from turning into the insides of the oven. 

This is a simple but effective fix that can help you lower your cooling bills. It is also the best way to avoid any unexpected air conditioner repair in Sacramento during a heatwave. 

Block The Sun Out

Bright sunlight may look pretty adorable outside, but inside the home, it just adds to the heat, especially if the weather is prickly hot. So, keep your blinds and curtains closed during the day. 

Blackout curtains work the best, but you can consider even the light ones, as they help keep rooms cooler. You’ll love noticing how much cooler your home will be, and it also saves your AC from fighting off the heat. 

Seal The Leaks

Cool air from inside your home can escape even from the tiniest of gaps around windows, doors, and even vents. If you’re running the AC but still feeling sweaty, consider checking for leaks. 

If you find them, don’t neglect them – seal the areas with weather stripping or caulk. These things don’t take much time and will also keep your home cooler. It means your AC won’t need to work 24/7 – even when the temperature hits 105 degrees outside. 

Avoid Cooking During Peak Hours

Using the oven at 5 PM in July? No wonder your kitchen is gonna turn into a sauna! Consider cooking a bit early or using appliances that don’t pump out heat, like a microwave, rice cooker, or air fryer. 

Even better – try grilling outside under your patio or go out for some cold dishes. The advantage? Your house stays cool, your AC doesn’t break, and dinner still gets done. This is one of those simple air conditioner tips that’s easy to follow – and no one complains about the hot stove!

Try Reflective Window Film

Reflective window film works wonders against the sun. It sticks right onto your windows and helps bounce infrared heat and harmful UV rays away before they get inside. It’s especially best for east or west-facing windows, as the sun hits the hardest in these areas. 

These films are cheap and easy to install, and the best thing is – they allow your AC to rest. It helps control that temperature spike while still allowing natural light through, so your rooms don’t feel dark or boxed in. 

Smart Gadgets That Cool Your Home Without Blasting The AC!

Here are some smart upgrades you must have in your homes this summer –

Smart Thermostats

Smart thermostats are termed “smart” because they know when to cool and when to adjust their settings. They learn your schedule, adjust their temperature when you’re away, and even respond to weather changes. The best part is – you don’t have to worry about turning it off, as it works on the “SET IT – FORGET IT” system. 

Zoned Mini-Split Systems

A zoned mini-split system lets you cool one room instead of the whole house. If your home office gets extra hot in the afternoon, a zoned mini-split is your best choice. They are quite energy-efficient and super useful if your home has uneven temperatures. 

Dehumidifiers 

Hot days feel even worse when your home is all sticky and humid. Hence, consider installing a dehumidifier, as it pulls excess moisture from the air, making your home feel cooler and more breathable. They are best suited for basements or bathrooms, where moisture can accumulate quickly. 

Evaporative Coolers

They are also known as “swamp coolers” and are perfect for dry climates like Sacramento. They pull in warm air and cool it with water vapor. The result? A breeze that feels cool and fresh, without needing refrigerant or compressors like a regular AC. They are ideal for single bedrooms or small spaces, and they use less electricity than air conditioners. 

Ceiling Fans With Thermostats Or Motion

Ceiling fans have come a long way – today, many have a built-in thermostat and motion sensors. That means they only work when someone is in the room and when it is actually warm – smart, right? If paired with AC, it can help you reduce your energy bills and also give your AC a chance to rest. 

Takeaway

Sacramento summers are no joke – but that doesn’t mean you have to blast your AC 24/7. Make a few changes to your home to improve its efficiency and keep it comfortable, even when the world outside is burning. It’s easy to beat the heat and extend the life of your cooling system. 

Need Air Conditioner Maintenance And Repair? Call Heald Mechanical Now!

If you’re looking for the best AC service in Sacramento, we are the ones you can trust. We have been serving since 1910 and help you with air filters, check your indoor air quality, and ensure you have clean and comfortable air. 100% customer satisfaction is our priority, and our contractors are ready 24/7 to help you!

Call us to schedule an appointment.