As temperatures rise across San Diego County, keeping cool doesn’t have to mean using more energy. Small changes at home can improve comfort, lower electricity use, and support the County of San Diego’s (County’s) sustainability goals. Whether you’re staying home or taking advantage of community resources, these simple tips can help you stay comfortable while reducing your environmental impact.

Visit Cool Zones: Stay cool on a hot day by visiting a local cool zone. A cool zone is a free, air-conditioned public place—such as a library, community center, or other designated facility—where people can go to stay cool during hot weather. Cool zones are located throughout the region and provide a safe, comfortable place to escape the heat without using extra energy at home.

Keep the Heat Out: Preventing heat from entering your home is one of the easiest ways to reduce the need for air conditioning.

• Close blinds, curtains, or shades on sun-facing windows during the hottest part of the day.
• Take advantage of natural shade from trees or outdoor awnings whenever possible.
• Open windows in the early morning or evening when outdoor temperatures are cooler to help ventilate your home naturally.
• Consider installing a heat pump. A heat pump works like an air conditioner by moving heat from inside your home to the outdoors, keeping your home cool. They work great for cooling, are highly efficient year-round, and reduce cooling costs compared to conventional air conditioners. In cooler weather, it reverses the process to bring heat indoors and warm your home.

Stay Cool, Save Energy

During periods of high temperatures, electricity demand increases across the region. By reducing energy use, when possible, residents can help lessen demand for the electrical grid while lowering household energy costs and reducing greenhouse gas emissions. Collectively, small actions taken throughout the community can make a meaningful difference.

Need help with home upgrades? The Equitable Building Decarbonization Program offers no-cost upgrades, including heat pumps, duct sealing, smart thermostats, and ceiling/whole-house fans. Residents of select Southern California communities may qualify, with program advisors available to help confirm eligibility.

Simple habits can also help keep your home more comfortable while supporting a more sustainable San Diego County. Whether you’re visiting a cool zone, improving your home’s energy efficiency, or making small changes to your daily routine, every action contributes to a healthier community and a more resilient future. For more ways to save energy, check out these energy saving tips.

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