Smart Summer Tips for Staying Cool — without Spiking Your Energy Bill

Cool Fan Facts

  • Did you know ceiling fans should spin counterclockwise in summer? That creates a wind-chill effect that makes you feel cooler.
  • Also remember, ceiling fans cool people and not rooms. Be sure to turn off ceiling fans when nobody is in the room
Ceiling Fan

Embrace the Chill of Water  

  • Keep a spray bottle of cold water in the fridge and mist your skin when it’s hot.
  • You can also soak a towel in cold water and place it around your neck or wrists — key pulse points — ­ to cool down quickly without adjusting the thermostat.
Water bottles in Fridge

Block Out the Sun

  • Keep blinds or blackout curtains closed during peak sunlight hours (usually 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.)
  • This helps keep your home cool, reducing the strain on your cooling system.

 

WANT SOME MORE SAVINGS?

Find more pro tips to help you save: myrec.coop/save

Sun blocking

REC STORIES

REC invites nonprofit organizations to apply for funding from The Power of Change. The deadline to apply for the spring 2026 grant period is Feb. 10.
President and CEO John Hewa continues to engage local leaders in taking action to ensure Virginia’s energy future.
Jaylin Margerum is a high school senior who plans to make trades a career. Girl Power Camp practically sold her on it. Margerum was one of 49 young wo...