Cheaper Summer Cooling for Renters

Try these cooling options for apartment dwellers and other renters who don’t want to spend a lot.

by Andrea Norris-McKnight

Many tips for reducing cooling bills are geared toward homeowners. However, as an apartment dweller you feel the sting of higher cooling bills, too, and replacing windows or air conditioning units isn’t an answer for you. So, let’s look at some things you can do to reduce the amount you spend keeping comfortable in your apartment this summer.

Harness the Power of Moving Air

Investing in a few fans is an economical way to circulate cool air and enhance comfort levels in your apartment during the sweltering summer months. While ceiling fans may not be viable for renters, portable floor or table fans can be a game-changer. (I have three of these Amazon Basics lightweight fans that I can easily move from room to room.)

Research indicates that even in extreme conditions with temperatures reaching 82°F and 100% humidity, air moving across the skin facilitates heat dissipation from the body and provides a refreshing breeze.

Optimize Fan Placement

Strategic fan placement can help you maximize the cooling effects. Position multiple fans so their airflows intersect, creating a cross-breeze that envelops you from various angles.

If you can access windows, consider placing a box fan within the opening, facing outwards. This setup draws hot air from the apartment and expels it outside so cooler air can circulate indoors.

Enhance Cooling With a Simple, Cheap Hack

Employing a simple household item in conjunction with your fan can provide an added chill factor.

Fill a large bowl or container with ice or ice packs and place it directly in front of the fan’s airstream. The air passing over the ice creates a cost-effective air conditioning system.

Embrace Cooler Colors

While it may seem unconventional, incorporating cool colors into your apartment’s decor can profoundly impact perceived temperature.

According to Kathy Wilson, editor of TheBudgetDecorator.com, utilizing shades from the blue and green families can create a visually cooler ambiance. “When the eye perceives cool colors, the brain associates them with refreshing elements like cool water, clear blue skies, or lush spring grass,” she explains.

Revamping your entire furniture set is unnecessary (and expensive!); instead, introduce cool colors through accents like throw pillows, slipcovers, area rugs or even by painting a single wall. These subtle touches can instantly lower the visual temperature, tricking the mind into perceiving a cooler environment.

Make Less Heat

While external heat sources can be challenging to control, you can take proactive measures to reduce internal heat buildup within your apartment.

Does the thought of cooking during the summer make you break out in a sweat? Cooking activities, in particular, contribute significantly to elevated temperatures (and electric bills). Limit the use of ovens and stovetops during the warmer months.

Explore alternative cooking methods, such as microwaves or outdoor grilling, that generate less heat. You can use a slow cooker on a porch or patio. An air fryer is another great appliance that allows you to enjoy home-cooked meals without raising the indoor temperature.

Additionally, consider adopting a lighter, more refreshing diet during summer, favoring salads and simpler fare over heavy, heat-intensive dishes.

Keep the Heat Outdoors

If you can access windows and doors, consider caulking any gaps or cracks to create an airtight seal. While your landlord may not cover the costs, caulking is an inexpensive and straightforward DIY project that can yield significant benefits. It will prevent external heat from infiltrating your apartment and fueling your cooling costs.

Direct sunlight streaming through your windows can also elevate indoor temperatures, much like a magnifying glass concentrates heat. To combat this, draw your shades or curtains, blocking the sun’s rays from entering your living space. Consider installing affordable thermal roll-up shades or blackout curtains if your apartment lacks heat-blocking window coverings. (I added these blackout curtain liners to our windows so I could keep my existing curtains.)

Ask your landlord about insulation, too. While adding insulation may not be a viable option for renters, it’s worth discussing with your landlord if the building lacks proper insulation. Insulation retains heat during winter and helps prevent hot air from seeping into your apartment during summer.

Optimize Air Conditioning Efficiency

If your apartment has central air conditioning, implementing a few simple steps can enhance its performance and reduce energy consumption.

Watch Thermostat Settings

Raise your thermostat setting as high as comfortably possible. For every degree of temperature increase, you can potentially save up to 4% on your air conditioning costs. This is especially beneficial during the day if no one will be home to enjoy the cool air anyway.

Don’t turn off your air conditioning unit when leaving your apartment. Just raise the thermostat setting slightly. Constantly cycling between on and off modes can require more energy to cool the space once it becomes hot.

Change the A/C Filter Regularly

Dust accumulation can impede airflow and diminish the efficiency of your air conditioning unit. Replacing your air conditioner’s filter each month will help ensure optimal performance. Changing the filter is often the responsibility of the tenant rather than the landlord, so find out what size your unit takes and how to change it if you’re unsure.

Your landlord may supply the filters; if not, buy them yourself. Disposable filters are a small expense, but you’ll recoup the investment through lower electricity bills.

Get a Checkup

Many utility companies offer complimentary inspections of air conditioning systems, identifying potential issues and providing recommendations for improvement. While your landlord may not be legally obligated to act on these suggestions, they might feel compelled to address any significant problems that could impact their property or your comfort.

Develop “Cooler” Habits

Some simple lifestyle changes and habits can significantly enhance your comfort levels during hot summer days.

Stay Hydrated

Proper hydration is crucial for regulating body temperature. Drink cool beverages throughout the day, such as water, iced tea or refreshing fruit juices. Avoid alcoholic or caffeinated drinks, as they can contribute to dehydration.

Dress for the Heat

Opt for lightweight, breathable fabrics like cotton or linen. These fabrics allow air to circulate and moisture to evaporate more efficiently. Loose-fitting clothing can also promote better airflow, so heat isn’t trapped against your skin.

Utilize Cold Compresses

Applying cold compresses or damp cloths to pulse points like the wrists, neck and temples can provide localized cooling and help lower your overall body temperature. Keep reusable gel ice packs in the freezer for injuries or to keep cool.

Eat Frozen Treats

Frozen snacks like popsicles or ice cream can offer a temporary cooling sensation as they melt. However, don’t overdo it. You don’t want to stay cool at the expense of your waistline or health.

Invest in some popsicle molds and you can make your own cheap frozen concoctions.

Get Breathable Bedding

Lightweight, breathable bedding materials like linen, cotton or percale can promote airflow and prevent heat buildup throughout the night. You might also consider investing in temperature-regulating bedding designed to maintain a consistent, comfortable sleeping environment.

As a renter, you may not have all the options that a homeowner has. But that doesn’t mean you need to be hot under the collar all summer long! By implementing these ingenious and cost-effective strategies, you can beat the summer heat without breaking the bank.

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Reviewed June 2024

About the Author

Andrea Norris-McKnight took over as the editor of The Dollar Stretcher and After 50 Finances after working under the site founder and previous editor for almost 15 years. She has also written for Money.com, GOBankingRates.com, HavenLife.com and The Sacramento Bee.