Heat Wave Hacks: Stay Cool and Save This Summer
Canada’s summer heat is off the charts, with June highs already breaking records across Ontario and Quebec. July brings more heat advisories. As climate trends push temperatures higher each year, Canadians are feeling the heat, not just in the air, but on their electricity bills too.
The silver lining? You don’t need to spend a fortune to stay cool. From no-cost fixes like strategic fan placement to inexpensive upgrades like window films and weather stripping, a few small tweaks can make a big difference.
No-Cost Energy-Saving Tips
- Block the sun all day long - Keep blinds or curtains closed, especially on south‑ and west‑facing windows, to significantly reduce heat gain.
- Fans + ice = DIY air conditioner - Position a bowl of ice or frozen water bottles in front of a fan to create cool airflow
- Evaporative cooling with a damp cloth or sheet - Hang a damp sheet or towel over an open window to cool incoming air.
- Turn off appliances that generate heat - Delay oven use and dryers until evening or use exhaust fans to remove heat when running them.
- Skip the heat function on your dishwasher and let your dishes air dry.
- Set fans to refresh air direction - Ceiling fans should rotate counterclockwise to push cool air down.
- Use ventilation fans in the kitchen/bathroom.
- Adjust thermostat strategically - Set air temperature to -26 °C when home and -29 °C when away — adding several degrees can slash cooling costs significantly.
Low-Cost Measures Under $50
- Light-coloured window film or foil - Reflects the sun before it heats windows, is easy to apply, and is cost-effective.
- Seal leaks - Use weather-stripping on windows and doors to keep cool air in and hot air out
- DIY reflective sun shades - Using tin foil or reflective boards placed outside windows during peak sunlight helps block heat before it enters.
- Use smart timers or plugs - Automate fans and portable AC to run only when needed, reducing wasted energy.
- Upgrade light bulbs - Replace incandescent bulbs with LEDs as they generate less heat and use far less electricity.
Longer-Term Steps (Still Budget-Friendly)
- Tune up your AC: Clean/replace filters and clear space around outdoor units helps ensure efficient cooling.
- Roof and exterior painting: Light-coloured paint or “cool roof” coating can lower indoor temperature by 1–3 °C
Smart coverage goes beyond insurance. At Insurance Hunter, we’re committed to helping you stay informed, stay cool, and stay protected—this summer and beyond.