WNC Homes and Real Estate - Asheville, North Carolina real estate

How to Stay Cool During Climate Change Heated Summers

silhouette of a pair of young men trying to stay cool by jumping through water sprayed up by fountains in an urban setting

(StatePoint) With 2023 and 2024 having been the hottest summers on record, there’s reason to believe 2025 will bring more of the same. But it doesn’t have to mean soaring energy bills or an overworked, outdated air conditioning system.

If you’re like many consumers, you’re looking for energy saving solutions, but may not be aware of all your options. A survey conducted by Atomik Research found that 76% of homeowners agree that they are more focused on energy efficiency now than they were five years ago.

At the same time, over half (54%) were unsure or unknowledgeable about the full capabilities of heat pumps, particularly their ability to provide both heating and cooling.

“Despite the name, heat pumps, are not just for heating, they’re also for cooling, and some of the latest models are engineered for even the toughest North American climates,” says David Rames, senior product manager at Midea which funded the survey. “As more homeowners make upgrades to prepare for increasingly extreme temperatures, heat pumps will be at the center of the shift.”

Unlike an air conditioner, which blasts cool air indoors, a heat pump actually removes hot air from the home and pumps it outside. It does the opposite during winter, transferring heat indoors instead of creating it.

Many people assume a high-performance heat pump will fall outside their budget. But cost-savings in the form of rebates and lower bills can make it well worth the investment. For example, in addition to delivering up to 32.5% energy savings compared to conventional HVAC units, those who install the Midea EVOX All Climate Heat Pump can qualify for up to $8,000 in federal rebates through the DOE Home Electrification and Appliance Rebate (HEAR) program.

Sealing air leaks is just as important in extreme heat as it is in extreme cold. A quick, DIY visual inspection can identify leaks. And if needed, a professional inspection can give you a complete overview of how to improve your home’s efficiency. You can also keep your home cooler by investing in energy efficient appliances that reduce byproduct heat emission.

Finally, in a heat wave, consider adjusting your habits. Limit the use of appliances such as the iron, oven and dryer to mornings and evenings, and use shades or blinds to reduce direct sunlight in your home’s spaces during the late morning and early afternoon.

For more inspiration and tips, visitFrogTape.com.