Beat the Heat: Tips for Keeping Your Home Cool in the Southeastern NC Summer

Summertime in Southeastern North Carolina is no joke—scorching temps, sticky humidity, and long sunny days are part of the deal. While we love our coastal lifestyle, it’s no secret that the summer heat can push both comfort and energy bills to the limit. So how do you keep your cool when the thermostat starts climbing?

Here are some easy ways to stay comfortable—and how a new home can make all the difference:

Close the Blinds (and the Heat Out)
It’s simple but effective: keep blinds or curtains closed during the hottest parts of the day, especially on south- and west-facing windows. Direct sunlight can raise indoor temps by several degrees. Consider light-blocking or thermal curtains for maximum impact.

Use Ceiling Fans Strategically
Ceiling fans don’t lower the room temperature, but they do make you feel cooler by circulating air. Make sure your fans are set to rotate counterclockwise in summer to push cool air downward. This lets you raise the thermostat a few degrees without sacrificing comfort.

Upgrade to a New Home = Big Cooling Benefits
Older homes may struggle to keep up in Southeastern NC’s hot and humid climate—but modern construction has come a long way. At Kent Homes, we build with energy efficiency and year-round comfort in mind. Here’s how:
•Low-E Windows: These high-performance windows reduce heat transfer while allowing in natural light—so you can enjoy bright spaces without baking in the sun.
•Radiant Barrier Roof Sheathing: Installed in the attic, this layer reflects heat rather than absorbing it, significantly lowering attic temperatures and easing the load on your HVAC system.
•High-Performance Insulation: Proper insulation helps regulate indoor temps, keeping the cool air in and the hot air out.
•Tight Building Envelope: Our homes are constructed to reduce air leaks and drafts, meaning your AC doesn’t have to work overtime.
All of this translates to lower energy costs and a more comfortable living space—even in the thick of a Carolina summer.
Switch to LED and Smart Thermostat
Incandescent bulbs produce a surprising amount of heat. Swapping them out for LEDs is an easy energy-saving (and heat-reducing) upgrade. Bonus points if you install a smart thermostat—it can help regulate temps efficiently, even when you're not home.

Keep Your HVAC System in Top Shape
A new HVAC system, like those in Kent Homes, runs more efficiently and reliably. But even the best systems need upkeep. Change filters regularly, clear any debris around outdoor units, and schedule seasonal maintenance to keep things running smoothly.

Ready to Upgrade Your Comfort?
If your current home leaves you sweating—literally—it might be time for something better. Kent Homes offers move-in ready homes and new build opportunities that are designed with the Southeast NC climate in mind. Energy efficiency, smart construction, and thoughtful design all add up to a cooler, more comfortable summer (and a lighter energy bill).

Stay Cool—The Smart Way
Staying cool in Southeastern NC doesn’t have to mean sky-high power bills or living in the dark. With smart habits—and the smart construction of a Kent Home—you can enjoy everything summer has to offer, from beach days to backyard BBQs, without breaking a sweat inside.

Explore our available homes today and experience the Kent Homes difference!