Summer is creeping in, and the heat is no joke. You might even be tempted to stand in front of the fridge just to catch a breeze. Instead of cranking up the AC and watching your bill skyrocket, we’ve rounded up four easy ways on how to keep apartment cool. Practical tricks that show you how to cool down an apartment without AC—without spending a fortune. Let’s get into it.
Main Takeaways
How to keep your apartment cool:
- Maximize airflow with portable or window fans to create cross-breezes and cool the space without running up your energy bill.
- Block heat at the source using blackout curtains, UV film, or window tint—and seal up cracks around windows and doors (with landlord approval) to keep hot air out.
- Use natural or temporary shade like potted plants, light awnings, or balcony covers to reduce sun exposure and lower indoor temperatures.
How to Keep Your Apartment Cool in 4 Ways
To cool down an apartment without AC, there are 4 steps you can take. No need to fear! Here are some tips to consider:
1. Get Portable Fans
When the heat starts creeping in, a good fan can feel like a lifesaver, especially in older apartments where airflow isn’t the best. In our experience with property management in Washington, D.C., fans are a go-to solution for renters seeking to cool down their spaces quickly. If your windows allow it, you can even try using a window fan to push hot air out and pull in cooler air.
But not all fans are created equal. For maximum airflow, go for oscillating fans or tower fans that can cover a larger space.
Pro Tip: Place your fan across from an open window to create a cross-breeze. That little airflow trick? It works better than you’d think—and it’s a simple way to cool down an apartment without AC.
2. Add Window Tint, UV Film, or Blackout Curtains
Windows are one of the main ways heat sneaks into your apartment. However, the good thing is that you can actually block it out without doing anything permanent. These small upgrades can make a huge difference—and they’re some of the easiest ways to cool down an apartment without AC.
Start with blackout curtains. They’re thick and lined, so they block out most of the sunlight. That means less heat entering during the day, and a cooler room even when the sun is out in full force.
Then there’s UV window film. It’s a clear, removable layer that you stick right onto the window. It blocks out heat and harmful rays while still allowing light to pass through. No damage to the window, no stress with the landlord.
And finally, window tint. Basically, it’s like sunglasses for your apartment. It cuts down glare and heat, and some types are even reusable—so if you ever move, you can take them with you.
Of course, you should always ask for your landlord’s explicit permission before you do this–this way, you can avoid making any accidental lease violations.
3. Seal Windows and Doors to Prevent Heat Infiltration
Hot air loves cracks—tiny gaps in your windows or under your door can let in more heat than you think. If your landlord lets you seal them up, that can help keep your apartment cooler. But let’s be real: you still need some airflow, especially when it’s hot.
Here’s how to strike the balance. Again, with your landlord’s permission, try to:
- Use weather stripping or draft stoppers on windows and doors that aren’t opened often. These can help you block heat from creeping in, but without messing with your ventilation.
- Get a simple door snake or rolled towel at the bottom of your door. This can work wonders (no tools needed, just a gentle touch).
Also, remember that sealing doesn’t mean cutting off all airflow. Your goal should be to close off spots that leak heat, not the ones that help you breathe. Focus on areas you rarely open, like storage windows or the bottom of unused doors. You’ll feel the difference without turning your space into a sauna.
As an aside, if you’re dealing with drafty windows or insulation issues, you may also find our guide on what to ask your landlord before signing a lease helpful—especially if heat and insulation are already a problem.
4. Plant Shade Trees or Use Outdoor Awnings
If your windows or balcony take in a lot of direct sunlight, it helps to block some of that heat before it reaches the glass. Should you have a bit of outdoor space—like a balcony, porch, or even a ground-floor window—you can use simple solutions like:
- Outdoor plants in pots. Think tall leafy ones that act like mini shade trees. They cool the air around them and soften the sunlight coming in.
- A light fabric awning or shade sail (the kind you tie between hooks or railings). These are renter-friendly and can significantly reduce the direct heat before it reaches your window. Again (we hate to repeat this so much) you should always ask for landlord permission before moving forward.
- DIY balcony shade: A well-placed sheet or bamboo mat can do wonders if you’re allowed to hang it up.
Shade doesn’t have to be expensive—sometimes, a few smart choices are all it takes to cool things down.
Tired of the Heat? Let’s Find You Something Better
Keeping your apartment cool doesn’t have to feel like a lost hope—it’s actually possible, even without an AC. Taking little steps like blocking heat or adding a bit of shade can make a huge difference.
But sometimes, the real issue is the apartment itself. If your home just traps heat no matter what you try, it might be time to consider a move. That’s where Bay Property Management Group comes in—we can help you find a home that actually feels cool and comfortable when it matters most.
We have rentals that fit your needs—and a team that’s here to match you with the right one. Look at our listings and let’s help you feel at home, no matter the season.
