When Arizona's summer heat arrives, homeowners often face a common challenge: how to keep their homes comfortable without dramatically increasing their energy bills. At Demers Glass, we’ve been helping families throughout Arizona since 1977 with energy-smart solutions that reflect our commitment to quality, innovation, and exceptional service.

This guide offers practical, easy-to-understand strategies for improving home energy efficiency during the hotter months. Whether you're considering simple adjustments or larger upgrades, every change you make can contribute to lower utility bills and a more comfortable home.

1. Keep Blinds and Window Treatments Closed During the Day

Direct sunlight can raise the internal temperature of your home by several degrees.

This simple action allows your air conditioning system to work more efficiently.

Thermal curtains, blackout shades, and reflective window films can take this one step further. These additions act as barriers against solar radiation and help maintain a consistent indoor temperature.

GreenMatch UK reports that properly managed window coverings can reduce heat gain by up to 33%.

To get the best performance from your windows, read our expert insight on everything you need to know about energy-efficient windows.

2. Use Ceiling Fans to Complement Air Conditioning

Ceiling fans do not lower room temperatures, but they create a wind-chill effect that helps you feel cooler. This means you can raise your thermostat setting a few degrees without sacrificing comfort. During the summer, ensure your fan blades rotate counterclockwise to push air downward.

According to Constellation Energy, combining ceiling fans with your air conditioning system can reduce energy use while maintaining comfort.

Ceiling fans are most effective when used in occupied rooms. Remember to turn them off when leaving a space to save electricity.

3. Seal Air Leaks Around Windows and Doors

Unsealed gaps around windows and doors let conditioned air escape and allow hot air to enter, causing your HVAC system to work overtime. Sealing these openings with caulking or weatherstripping is a cost-effective way to improve energy performance.

Efficiency Maine advises that sealing air leaks is a foundational step in keeping your home's temperature consistent.

For more insight on efficient window solutions, explore the best glass for your home windows.

4. Upgrade to Energy-Efficient Windows

Older or damaged windows often lack the insulation needed to combat Arizona's summer heat. Today’s energy-efficient windows feature Low-E (low emissivity) coatings and insulated frames that reflect infrared heat while allowing natural light to enter.

As the Green Mountain Energy blog points out, window upgrades can play a pivotal role in boosting your home's insulation and reducing cooling demand.

If you're considering a full window update, our guide to whole house window replacement will walk you through the process, benefits, and materials.

5. Maintain Your Air Conditioning System

Routine maintenance ensures your HVAC system operates at peak efficiency. Dirty filters and clogged coils force your AC to work harder, increasing energy consumption and reducing lifespan.

We recommend replacing or cleaning filters monthly during peak usage and scheduling annual professional tune-ups.

ATCO Energy highlights that simple maintenance, like changing filters, can boost AC efficiency by 5 to 15%.

Well-maintained systems last longer, break down less often, and deliver better performance in the extreme Arizona heat.

6. Install Heat-Blocking Window Film

Window films offer a practical and budget-friendly solution for reducing solar heat gain. These films block up to 80% of the sun’s infrared rays while letting in natural light. They also reduce UV damage to furniture and flooring.

GreenMatch suggests that window film is a simple way to dramatically cut summer cooling costs.

Explore our residential window tinting guide to see how window films can work for your home.

Additional Strategies to Enhance Summer Energy Efficiency

While the tips above are a strong starting point, homeowners looking for deeper savings and comfort improvements can take additional steps. Here are several more effective methods to lower energy usage and keep your home cooler during Arizona's hottest months.

7. Use Programmable or Smart Thermostats

This reduces unnecessary cooling and increases energy efficiency.

According to Constellation Energy, smart thermostats can reduce annual heating and cooling bills by up to 10%.

Schedule higher temperatures during work hours or when you're away, and lower it slightly before you return home.

8. Minimize Indoor Heat Generation

Appliances like ovens, dryers, and incandescent light bulbs generate heat that raises indoor temperatures. During summer months:

  • Cook outdoors or use a microwave
  • Run dishwashers and dryers in the evening
  • Switch to LED lighting

Green Mountain Energy recommends reducing indoor heat sources to ease the load on your AC.

Looking for more upgrades? Learn about the best types of skylights for capturing natural light.

9. Improve Insulation in Key Areas

Insulating your attic, crawl spaces, and ductwork prevents cool air from escaping and hot air from entering. While insulation is often associated with winter heating, it's equally vital for summer cooling.

Efficiency Maine recommends high-performance insulation materials to reduce both heating and cooling loads.

Pair insulation upgrades with thermally broken window frames for maximum year-round efficiency.

10. Use Natural Ventilation

When outside temperatures drop in the early morning or evening, open your windows to allow cool air to circulate. Strategic window placement can create cross-ventilation, pushing hot air out and drawing fresh air in.

GreenMatch notes that natural airflow not only cools a home but also improves air quality without added energy use.

This is especially effective in homes with floor-to-ceiling windows or operable skylights.

11. Invest in Exterior Shading Solutions

Awnings, pergolas, shade sails, and retractable solar screens can block direct sunlight from entering your home. Exterior shading reduces indoor temperatures and complements other cooling strategies.

We explain the benefits of retractable solar-powered awnings and how they provide sustainable sun protection.

12. Replace Single-Pane Windows

If your home still uses single-pane windows, it may be time for a full upgrade. Double-pane or triple-pane glass significantly reduces heat transfer, improving both comfort and energy efficiency.

Learn more in our comprehensive guide on window glass replacement in Arizona.

13. Consider Whole-Home Window Replacement

Sometimes individual upgrades are not enough. A complete window replacement may be the best long-term investment for energy savings. Demers Glass specializes in helping Arizona homeowners select the right styles, materials, and performance ratings for their specific needs.

Our team walks you through the process in our article on how to choose the best replacement windows for your home.

Why Choose Demers Glass?

Since 1977, Demers Glass has helped thousands of Arizona homeowners reduce energy usage while enhancing the comfort and appearance of their homes. Our team brings deep expertise in window technologies, glass performance, and installation best practices. We’re proud to be known for our integrity, craftsmanship, and customer-first service.

Whether you are looking to tint your windows, install energy-efficient replacements, or add modern window films, we are here to help. We take the time to understand your needs and recommend tailored solutions that provide lasting value.

Ready to improve your home’s energy efficiency this summer? Contact Demers Glass for a personalized consultation.

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