1. Let your blinds do the work

Sunlight streaming through south- and west-facing windows in the afternoon is one of the biggest reasons apartments overheat. Closing your blinds or curtains during peak sun hours (roughly 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.) can keep indoor temperatures noticeably lower. If you want an upgrade, blackout curtains or reflective window film are inexpensive, renter-friendly options that don't require any permanent changes to the unit.

2. Give your air conditioner a fighting chance

Whether you have a window unit or central air, a few small adjustments go a long way:

• Change or clean your air filter monthly during peak summer use. A clogged filter makes your system work harder and drives up your bill.
• Keep vents and window units free of furniture, curtains, or clutter blocking airflow.
• Set your thermostat a few degrees higher when you're not home. ComEd's Hourly Pricing energy tips recommend setting your thermostat to the warmest comfortable temperature during summer, and adjusting it further when you're away from home.

If your unit isn't cooling properly or you notice unusual noises, don't wait it out — submit a maintenance request. Small issues are easier (and cheaper) to fix before peak summer heat pushes the system to its limit.

3. Use fans strategically

Ceiling fans and box fans use a fraction of the energy an AC unit does. Running a fan alongside your air conditioner lets you raise the thermostat a couple of degrees while feeling just as cool, since moving air makes a room feel cooler than the actual temperature. Position a fan facing an open window in the evening once outdoor temps drop below indoor ones, and you can pull in a natural cross-breeze overnight.

4. Rethink your cooking schedule

Ovens and stovetops generate a surprising amount of heat, which your AC then has to work overtime to counteract. On the hottest days, lean into no-cook or low-cook meals: salads, sandwiches, grilling if you have access to outdoor space, or a slow cooker set up somewhere ventilated. It's a small shift that keeps your kitchen, and the rest of your apartment, several degrees cooler.

5. Seal the gaps you can't see

Drafts don't just let cold air in during winter, they let cool air escape during summer too. Check the edges of windows and door frames for gaps. A simple, renter-safe fix is weatherstripping tape or a door draft stopper, both of which are removable and won't damage the unit.

6. Unplug what you're not using

Electronics left plugged in, even when turned off, draw a small amount of power around the clock. This is often called "phantom load." TVs, chargers, gaming consoles, and small kitchen appliances all add up over a full month. Plugging non-essential electronics into a power strip makes it easy to switch everything off at once when you leave for the day.

7. Take advantage of cooler hours

Chicago mornings and late evenings in summer are often significantly cooler than midday. If your building layout allows it, opening windows early in the morning or after sunset to let cooler air in, then closing everything up and drawing the blinds once the temperature climbs, can reduce how hard your AC needs to work throughout the day.

8. Know what's covered, and what to report

Every building is different, and it's worth understanding what falls under routine maintenance versus what's on you as a tenant. If you're dealing with a broken AC unit, a drafty window, or anything affecting your unit's ability to stay cool, reach out to your property manager. Catching these issues early keeps your apartment comfortable and can prevent a small fix from turning into a bigger, more expensive one later in the season.

Small changes add up over a Chicago summer, and most of these tips cost little to nothing to put into practice. At NXT Realty, we're committed to making sure every resident feels supported, not just during move-in, but throughout the season. If you're dealing with an issue that needs a professional eye, reach out to your property management team so it can be addressed and your home stays comfortable all season long.