Life Kit How to keep cool while saving energy
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Jun 23, 2025 
Julia Simon, NPR's Climate Solutions correspondent, shares her expertise on energy conservation during the summer heat. She offers five affordable tips to keep cool without over-relying on air conditioning. Discover the science behind opening windows versus AC, the benefits of 'night flushing' your home, and innovative shading systems. Plus, learn quick strategies for sealing leaks and improving ventilation to beat the heat while saving on energy bills!
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Open Windows for Cooling
- Open one or two windows in your home to let cooler outside air in and heat out.
- This works best early morning or at night for natural cooling without AC use.
Use Fans Before AC
- Use ceiling fans to move air and create a cooling breeze before turning on AC.
- Fans can reduce energy use and greenhouse gases by about 76% compared to air conditioners.
Install External Window Shades
- Install external shades on your windows to block heat before it enters your home.
- External shading prevents heat from sunlight better than indoor curtains or shades.