Beat the Heat – Affordable Ways to Cool Your Home This Coming Summer

If you're a Salt Lake City homeowner, you know the Wasatch Front summers can bring some serious heat—especially in July and August. While central air can be a lifesaver, it also cranks up your utility bill faster than you can say “Red Butte Garden concert series.” But don’t sweat it—there are plenty of affordable ways to keep your home cool without breaking the bank.

Here are my favorite wallet-friendly cooling hacks for homes right here in SLC:

1. Get Smart About Windows

Hack: Close blinds or curtains during peak sun hours (10am–4pm), especially on west-facing windows. Bonus: Invest in thermal or blackout curtains to block out heat. Local Tip: Homes in Sugar House and the Avenues often have beautiful large windows—great for views, not so great for heat. Try window film for an extra layer of insulation without losing the light.

2. Use Fans Strategically

Hack: Set ceiling fans to spin counterclockwise in summer to push cool air down. Bonus: Box fans in windows at night can pull in that cool canyon air (yes, even in July).Local Tip: If you're near Emigration or Millcreek Canyon, take advantage of those breezy evening temps!

3. Avoid the Oven Like the Plague

Hack: Grill outside, use a slow cooker, or make cold dishes during heatwaves. Why it matters: Cooking inside can raise your indoor temp by several degrees—fast. Local Tip: Try picking up fresh produce from the Downtown Farmer’s Market and whip up a no-cook salad. Your home—and body temp—will thank you.

4. DIY Swamp Cooler for the Win

Hack: Place a bowl of ice in front of a fan to blow chilled air into the room. Upgrade: Freeze water bottles and rotate them out throughout the day. Local Tip: This trick works great in SLC’s dry climate—it wouldn’t be as effective in humidity-heavy places.

5. Seal Up Sneaky Air Leaks

Hack: Use weather stripping or caulk to seal leaky doors and windows. Why it helps: Keeps that hot air out and your cool air in. Local Tip: Bungalows and older homes in Liberty Wells or Yalecrest are charming—but often drafty. A quick weekend seal-up can make a big difference.

6. Get a Programmable Thermostat

Hack: Program your thermostat to cool only when you’re home. Why it works: You’ll avoid unnecessary energy use and save $$$.Local Tip: Dominion Energy and Rocky Mountain Power often have rebates for smart thermostat installations—worth checking out.

7. Switch to LED Lighting

Hack: Swap out incandescent bulbs for LEDs, which give off less heat. Added Bonus: Lower energy bill + longer bulb life. Local Tip: If you're updating lighting in your SLC bungalow or townhome, this is an easy, low-cost first step.

Final Thought

Cooling your home in the Salt Lake summer doesn’t have to cost a fortune—or require a major remodel. With a few smart adjustments, you can stay comfortable, reduce your energy use, and keep that mountain escape for weekends—not just for avoiding the heat.