My 10 Smart Home Cooling Tricks to Survive Heat Waves

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More heatwaves are expected throughout the US (and around the world), which makes this the ideal time to prep your home. That's not just about cranking the AC, either. Especially hot weather can be dangerous for your pets, kids, older relatives -- and your energy bills. But I've got tips that can help.

Here are the home hacks I and other CNET experts use during our hot summers to help keep things cool and safe, with minimal damage to our monthly budgets. Here's how to take control of your indoor temps and avoid the worst.

Read more: Best Window Air Conditioners of 2026, Tested in Our Heat-Simulation Lab

1. Use a portable air conditioner and monitor room temperature carefully

Whole-house air conditioners remain very important in heat waves, especially when combined with other cooling methods. But not all homes have whole-house AC, and in severe heat...

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