Let’s be honest — when summer shows up in Michigan, it doesn’t hold back. If you’ve stepped outside recently and felt like you opened the oven instead of your front door… you’re not alone.
Whether you’re relaxing at home, working remotely, or entertaining friends in the backyard, here are a few easy ways to stay cool, protect your home, and actually enjoy summer (without melting in the process).
1. Close Your Blinds Before Noon
It sounds simple, but keeping sunlight out during the hottest hours can lower indoor temps by 5–10 degrees — and give your A/C a break. Bonus: Your furniture won’t fade as fast either.
2. Switch Ceiling Fans to “Summer Mode”
There’s a switch on most ceiling fans that changes the direction. In summer, you want the blades spinning counterclockwise to push cool air down. It can make a room feel 4° cooler!
3. Hydrate Like It’s Your Job
Your body needs more water than you think in the heat. Keep a refillable bottle around (and maybe toss in some lemon or cucumber slices to feel fancy).
4. Avoid Cooking Indoors at Peak Heat
Grilling outside or using a slow cooker saves you from heating up your whole house. Bonus points if you try a no-cook summer salad or cold pasta dish — your kitchen (and your A/C bill) will thank you.
5. Give Your A/C Some Love
- Change your filter (every 30–60 days)
- Make sure outside units are clear of leaves/grass
- Consider a smart thermostat if you don’t already have one — your energy bill will notice the difference
6. Use Box Fans + Ice for DIY A/C
It’s not glamorous, but placing a bowl of ice in front of a box fan can seriously chill a room fast — especially helpful if your system’s struggling or you’re working in one hot corner of the house.
7. Protect Your Lawn (and Sanity)
Water your grass early morning (6–8 AM) to minimize evaporation and avoid cooking your lawn. Late afternoon watering can lead to fungus and oversaturation.
Bonus: Cool Things to Do in Ann Arbor This Summer
- Free concerts at Top of the Park
- Tubing or kayaking the Huron River
- The Ann Arbor Art Fair — grab sunscreen and good shoes!
- Cold brew from RoosRoast or Comet Coffee — trust me, it hits differently in the heat
Stay Cool — Literally and Locally
I just wanted to drop a few helpful tips your way and say I hope you’re enjoying your summer so far! If you ever need a contractor, AC checkup referral, or just want to talk about how this heat might affect your home, I’m just a message away.
