Try to keep the window coverings closed from morning until late afternoon when the sun is at its peak. If heat is a persistent problem in the room, consider purchasing thermal insulated blackout curtains. Also, if you install curtains over an existing set of window coverings which were already there, don’t forget to close both.

It’s not always feasible to turn out all the lights. At the very least, dim them as much as you can. [3] X Research source Consider replacing your incandescent lights with compact fluorescent lamps, or better yet, light-emitting diodes which generate far less heat. [4] X Research source CFLs and LEDs are more environmentally-friendly, as well.

Do a quick survey of the remaining clutter and quickly eliminate what you can.

Once it cools off a bit, be sure to close the windows.

Check the ceiling fan blades to see if they’re rotating counterclockwise (if viewing them from below) – if they aren’t, adjust the settings. Setting the blades to rotate counterclockwise and turning the fan on a higher speed will substantially increase airflow. [10] X Research source

Turn on your bathroom ventilation fan, too. The ventilation fan can help suck hot air out of the room, just as it does when you take a steamy shower. [14] X Research source

Position the bowl at a slight angle, tilted up, if the fan doesn’t seem to be blowing across the ice effectively. [16] X Research source

If you don’t want to bother with installation or you have windows that aren’t ideal for it, consider buying a portable air conditioner. All you have to do is plug it in – no installation necessary. [21] X Research source

Unplug all of the electronics in the room during the night, as well, to cool down the area even more. [24] X Research source

Dehumidifiers aren’t cheap, but they are usually portable, so you can bring it from room to room to maximize its usage. For best results, place the dehumidifier in the center of the room you are trying to cool down. [25] X Research source

In the summer you can position the white side facing out to reflect the sun and in the winter the dark side can be positioned to face out, which will absorb heat. [26] X Trustworthy Source Consumer Reports Nonprofit organization dedicated to consumer advocacy and product testing Go to source