How to Prepare Your Home for Summer in Arizona: Smart Cooling, Sealing & Safety Tips

If you live in an Arizona home, you know the summer heat isn’t just uncomfortable—it can be extreme, with temps soaring over 110°F. Preparing your home now means fewer headaches later, lower energy bills, and better comfort all season long.

Whether you’re staying in your home or leaving for the summer, here’s how to get everything ready—from your air conditioner to your irrigation system, windows, and beyond.

1. Check and Maintain Your Cooling System

Your air conditioner does the heavy lifting during summer in Arizona, and it needs to be in top shape to keep up. Be sure to:

• Schedule a professional tune-up for your HVAC system to keep it efficient and reliable.
• Change air filters every 1–3 months to improve airflow.
• Inspect ductwork and seal leaks to prevent cooled air from escaping.
• Clean debris away from your outdoor unit for proper ventilation.
• Adjust your thermostat to 78°F while home and 80–82°F when away to optimize energy savings.
  

If your system struggles despite maintenance, your windows may be contributing to heat gain. Upgrading to energy-efficient windows built for desert climates can drastically improve cooling performance. Learn more about Arizona energy-efficient window solutions.

2. Upgrade and Weatherize Windows & Doors

Old, leaky windows and doors are a major reason homes overheat in the summer. Here’s what you can do:

• Install shade screens, awnings, or window film to block UV rays and reduce solar heat gain.
• Caulk and weatherstrip around windows and front doors to seal gaps.
• Use thermal curtains or blinds on west- and south-facing windows.
• Upgrade to Low-E, double-pane windows for optimal performance in Arizona’s climate.
  

Explore high-performance window replacement options here.

Also, don’t forget your interior doors—keeping them open during the day improves air circulation and keeps your cooling system from overworking.

3. Smart Cooling Habits Inside Your Home

Once your windows and cooling system are ready, it’s time to focus on smart habits:

• Use ceiling fans in occupied rooms to improve comfort and circulate cool air.
• Run appliances like dryers and ovens after sunset to avoid heating your home during peak hours.
• Close blinds and drapes during the day, especially on sun-facing windows.
• Practice supercooling: lower your thermostat to around 70°F overnight (during off-peak energy hours), then raise it during the day.
  

4. Prepare Outdoor Areas for the Heat

Outdoor spaces can affect indoor temperatures. Here’s how to manage your patio or yard efficiently:

• Plant shade trees or use patio covers to block sun exposure near windows.
• Maintain your watering systems and check that your irrigation system is working properly.
• If you have a hot tub, cover it securely and consider turning it off for the season to save energy.
• Remove flammable materials and combustible flammable chemicals from patios and sheds—they can be dangerous in the dry summer heat.
• Store outdoor furniture before monsoon winds hit to prevent damage.
  

5. Secure Safety and Utility Systems

Arizona summers bring monsoons, power surges, and pests. Prep your systems to stay safe and stress-free:

• Test and replace batteries in fire alarms and your security system.
• Disconnect the battery on unused vehicles, golf carts, or motorcycles if you’ll be away.
• Set your garage door opener to vacation mode or disable it if you’ll be gone for a while.
• If you’re a snowbird, be sure to:
  • Turn off or put your service on hold for unneeded utilities.
  • Turn off the heating system, but keep your cooling set around 85°F to protect your belongings.
  • Leave buckets of water in rooms to maintain moisture in the dry heat.
  • Secure all propane tanks, shut off gas lines, and unplug unnecessary electronics.
    

Need help with weatherizing your doors or windows? Schedule a free quote today.

FAQs: Summer-Ready Arizona Homes

What’s the best thermostat setting for Arizona summers?
78°F during the day is ideal. Set it higher (80–82°F) when you’re away to save energy.

Why does my house still feel hot with the AC on?
You may have poor insulation, drafty windows, or leaking ductwork. A home energy audit can help identify the issue.

How do I prepare if I’ll be leaving my Arizona home for the summer?
Shut off unused systems, keep AC on low, seal up windows, secure outdoor areas, and leave moisture in rooms to counteract dryness.

Are energy-efficient windows worth the investment in Arizona?
Yes. Upgraded windows reduce heat gain, lower your electric bill, and protect your home from UV damage.

Ready to Summer-Proof Your Arizona Home?

Whether you’re staying put or leaving town, prepping your home for Arizona’s intense summer heat is one of the best ways to protect your comfort and your investment. From HVAC checkups to window replacements and insulation upgrades, a few smart moves can make a big difference.

Get started with a free in-home consultation from American Vision Windows today.