This summer has been warmer than average and has predicted to be one of the hottest in U.S. history. But, trying to keep your home comfortably cool can lead to increased energy costs.

Prioritize Insulation

“Insulation helps to stabilize temperatures throughout your home, prevent structural damage to the foundation that can be caused by excess heat and moisture, and it helps to prolong the life of your HVAC system,” explains Michael DiMartino, senior vice president of installations at Power Home Remodeling. Since heat rises, a poorly insulated attic gets trapped and fights against the cooled air down below, and you may notice in second story homes, the second floor is usually hotter. “Without proper ventilation, an unfinished attic can be privy to condensation, which can cause mold and other unwanted growth in the attic that can lead to longer term structural damage,” DiMartino says. Insulation creates space or air pockets between two layers of material, so adding rafter vents can help direct fresh air in the attic, which in turn keeps a space between the insulation and the roof decking. This will provide an area for air to flow from exterior vents up to the attic.

Insulate With Landscaping

Not only can your attic be a place where insulation can help keep your home cool. But, also consciously planting landscaping around your home can block the sun’s rays and provide shade to your home.

Clean Your Vents

In order for your HVAC to perform at maximum efficiency, it’s important to make sure the airflow being produced is unobstructed. You can do so by cleaning your vents on a routine basis to remove dust and other debris that will cause the HVAC unit to run harder and longer than needed. using a flexible duster or the wand extension on your vacuum should make this a quick fix, and even cut down the amount of dust blowing through your home to improve its indoor air quality. As well, it’s important to make sure none of your floor vents are being blocked by objects or furniture.

Decorate Your Windows

Another home component that is helping to lowering your cooling costs and keeping your home cool is window coverings, functional and decorative. Drapes, curtains, and blinds can add even more helpful insulation to your home by keeping your cold air conditioning from escaping through windows. As well, if your window receives a lot of sun light, window coverings will also help block the sun from providing even more heat to your home.