Smart Tips for Beating the Heat

Written by Nathan Kurtin—Co-Owner, Executive Vice President

May 1, 2025

Blog Smart Tips for Beating the Heat

Summer in Texas can be a scorcher—and as the temperature rises, so can your utility bills. But keeping your cool (literally) doesn’t have to mean blasting the AC around the clock. With a few simple tricks and some fun ideas, you can stay comfortable, use energy more efficiently, and make the most of the season.

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Simple Ways to Keep Your Home Cooler

You don’t have to overhaul your home to make a big difference. These practical steps can help lower your indoor temperature and keep your energy bills in check:

  • Close Curtains and Blinds

Sunlight streaming through windows can heat your home fast. Keep curtains or blinds drawn during the hottest parts of the day to block out that unwanted heat.

  • Use Fans Strategically

In the summer, ceiling fans should spin counterclockwise to push cooler air downward. In the evening, place portable fans near open windows to pull in fresh, cooler air from outside.

  • Set Your Thermostat for Efficiency

Aim for a comfortable but efficient temperature—around 78°F (25°C)—when you're home and a little higher when you're out. And don’t forget to replace or clean your AC filters regularly! Dirty filters make your system work harder and waste energy.

  • Seal Up Gaps

Check for cracks or gaps around windows and doors, and seal them with caulk or weather stripping. This simple fix helps keep the cool air in and the hot air out.

  • Try Outdoor Cooking

Skip the stove and fire up the grill instead. Cooking outdoors keeps extra heat out of your kitchen and gives you an excuse for a backyard barbecue.

  • Use Natural Ventilation

When temperatures drop in the early morning or evening, open your windows and let the breeze do the work. Cross-ventilation can cool down your space naturally and quickly.

  • Add Reflective Window Film

If you’re looking for a longer-term solution, installing heat-reducing window film can block sunlight and help rooms stay cooler—without sacrificing natural light.

  • Dress for the Weather

Lightweight, breathable fabrics can help you feel cooler indoors without dropping the thermostat.

  • Stay Hydrated and Cool Off

Drink plenty of water and take cool showers when needed. It’s a simple way to beat the heat from the inside out.

Make Staying Cool Fun for the Whole Family

Of course, keeping your house cool is important—but so is enjoying your summer! Here are some fun, heat-beating activities for the whole family:

  • Go for a swim at a local pool, lake, or beach.
  • Run through the sprinklers in the yard—kids and adults alike will love it.
  • Host a water balloon fight for an instant cool-down and a lot of laughs.
  • Enjoy popsicles or frozen treats on the porch.
  • Create a DIY slip ‘n slide with a tarp, hose, and a little dish soap.
  • Visit air-conditioned spots like museums, theaters, or indoor play areas.
  • Throw a cool-themed party, complete with an ice cream bar and shaded seating.

Summer is short—make it count with simple fun that keeps everyone feeling refreshed.

One Last Thing: Make Sure Your Insurance Is Summer-Ready

Summer fun is a blast, but it’s also a time of year when certain risks go up—grill fires, storm damage, and power surges, to name a few. It’s a good idea to check in on your homeowners or renters insurance to make sure your policy still fits your lifestyle and seasonal activities.

Talk with a Leavitt Group Texas Select advisor today to review your coverage, ask questions, and enjoy summer with confidence.

Have questions? Contact:

Nathan Kurtin

Nathan Kurtin

Co-Owner, Executive Vice President

Call: (713) 978-7811