I love my Brooklyn apartment, but no home is ever perfect. High on the list of things I would change if I had all the money in the world is that I can't keep my room the same temperature as the rest of the apartment. I've got a few things working against me in my room specifically. First, there is a single A/C register, and it's on the side of the room furthest from the windows. Second, the HVAC is severely unbalanced, with the actual output of my one vent being quite low. Finally, have I ever mentioned how much I love having two large south-facing windows? I love them and I miss them since they're never open. The only way to stay cool in this apocalyptic heat is to keep them closed!
All this to say, I've got the hottest room in the apartment by far. Over the years, I've put in a lot of work to help me beat the heat in the summer, and it's come in handy in the winters as well. Here are some strategies and solutions that have worked for me:
1. Air Deflector
An air deflector is a game-changer when dealing with poorly positioned A/C vents. These lightweight covers can help you improve the direction of the air that comes out of your air vent. If you have floor registers, or like me, have an entire room to heat & cool that the register doesn't begin to touch, these deflectors redirect airflow towards the areas of the room that need it most. By directing the cool air towards the center of the room, you can maximize the efficiency of your cooling system.
Investment: $
Score: 3/5
2. Ice Pack
Heat during the day is one thing, but overheating at night? That's a new circle of hell.
I stumbled into this simple yet effective method when I was icing a sore foot one night: use an ice pack at night to keep yourself cool. Place it under your pillow or at the foot of your bed to create a cool spot that helps you stay comfortable. If you have a gel foam mattress like I do, the cool temperature spreads across the surface of your bed. I recommend reusable ice cubes or a gel freezer pack wrapped in a canvas/cloth to prevent a lot of condensation.
Investment: $
Score: 4/5
3. Reflective Window Film
Reflective window film is useful for sun-facing windows and doors. This film reflects a significant portion of the sun's heat away from your windows, helping to keep the room cooler. It’s like giving your windows a pair of sunglasses. In my experience, I only see a one degree difference before and after installation. One thing I don't love? That they've changed the color of the light that enters the room. I prefer the warm daylight glow.
Investment: $$
Score: 2/5
4. Curtains & Blinds
Blackout curtains aren't an option for me. I like sunlight. What I don't like is getting cooked while the rest of the apartment feels like the tundra. or thermal blinds can make a huge difference in regulating room temperature. Instead, I went with multiple layers of window dressings. I have Ikea's cellular blinds and canvas curtains. Individually they allow light to flow into the room. Together, they create a double insulation area that traps the warmer (or cooler) air leaking in from the windows from spreading around. Unfortunately, window treatments are pay to play. Blackout curtains or curtains of heavier weight will cost more and cellular blinds can cost you a pretty penny if you go all out.
Investment: $$$ - $$$$ (Depending on your choice of window treatments)
Score: 4/5
5. Ceiling Fan
I did everything in my power to avoid making this kind of investment but it has been the most significant factor in improving air flow. They may not be in style right now but ceiling fans circulate air and help rooms feel more comfortable without a major increases in electricity costs. I consider this a huge improvement over days past, hoping to feel the slight touch of cold air when the A/C cut on. I went with a modern take on the classic design because I don't know if the cutesy chandelier fans can get the job done.
Investment: $$$
Score: 5/5
6. Smart Thermostat
I bit the bullet and got a smart thermostat when ConEd was offering discounts. Smart thermostats help you manage the temperature more efficiently. I bought room sensors and added them to my living room and bedroom, the best and worst temperature controlled parts of my apartment. Now, instead of responding to the temperature in a hallway where no one hangs out, the A/C responds to the real temperature where people are. The added perks of controlling the HVAC system from my smartphone, setting schedules, and reminders to change the filter are bonuses.
Investment: $$$
Score: 4/5
These strategies have been lifesavers in my quest to keep my room cool and comfortable. If you think you need a handy man to install the ceiling fan or smart thermostat, then I recommend you get one. Whatever yur reason for looking for ways to deal with the heat, maybe with a poorly positioned vent or a sun-soaked room, there are solutions out there. Stay cool, y'all!
A few post-script notes:
I haven't tried electric/smart HVAC registers, tin foil over the windows, or those heat to shrink window insulation kits that are mostly used in the winter. I have read online about these ideas though.
I do regularly replace the filter on our HVAC unit, re-caulk the window casings, and replace weather stripping around windows as necessary. The strategies listed above are additional steps I've taken and my ratings reflect how they've worked for me. Of course, results may vary.