Granted, most homes in the United States already have some form of air conditioning – be it an HVAC system or a simple split-type or window-type unit. But this summer is exceedingly hot, and sometimes, your system can’t deal with it – it may need all the help it can get. If you’re reading this in the sweltering, suffocating heat, you’re not alone – but did you know that there are some air conditioning hacks you can use to make your home extra cool? Believe it or not, it’s undeniable sometimes – and all it takes is creative thinking (and a little extra knowledge) to make a difference. So, without further ado, here are the top air conditioning hacks you can use to make your home extra cool.

Install a booster fan for your air ducts

One sure thing you can do – and a lot of homeowners swear by it – is install a booster fan for your air ducts. It comes with an easily-installed design, and better yet, all you have to do is plug it in – and turn on the power. This nifty gadget allows you to draw in more of the cooler air. So don’t forget to select a design that’s right for your needs and place the booster fan in the vent and then plug it in – and you can benefit from one of the quickest and easiest ways to cool down your space.

Use a portable air conditioner

If your air conditioning system does not reach areas in your home, or you want to use it in conjunction with your AC system to make it cooler, you can purchase a portable AC. Since it is portable, you can easily move it from one room to another and place it wherever you need cool air.

Have your air conditioning system properly maintained

Now, this one’s pretty obvious – but it seems that not many homeowners see the importance of it! If you have an air conditioning or HVAC system, it’s crucial to have it properly maintained and checked every season, as confirmed by McNally HVAC. Have the professionals come once or twice a year to assess and maintain it so that you can keep it at its optimum operating condition – it’s also an excellent way to do any necessary repairs before it gets worse. Of course, you can do your own checking, too – you have to know how to inspect it so you can at least tell the experts what’s wrong with it before they do a more thorough check.

Put up a mini-split type unit

If you don’t have an HVAC system or want to add to your existing system, you can put up a mini-split unit. This kind of air conditioner is becoming increasingly popular in European countries, and it’s a cross between a wall and a built-in system or unit. The great thing about it is it’s compact and won’t disturb your home’s aesthetic, and it operates very quietly. It can also be set up almost anywhere and is a better option for ductless houses.

Of course, there are other things you can do to keep your home cool – these include planting foliage around your house and property (it may take a few years, but it’s worth it), opening your windows in the evening, and closing the window blinds!