Let’s be real, summer in North Texas isn’t for the faint of heart. With long stretches of 90–100°F days and the kind of sunshine that turns your car into an oven, staying cool inside your apartment can feel like a full-time job. But guess what? It doesn’t have to be.

Whether you're in Dallas, Fort Worth, Plano, McKinney, or anywhere in Texas, there are smart, energy-efficient ways to chill out, literally, without driving your electric usage through the roof.

If you’re lucky enough to call Camden home in the DFW area, you’ve already got a head start. But wherever you live in North Texas, these tips will help you stay cool, save energy, and enjoy summer to the fullest.

Set It and Forget It: Thermostat Tips That Work

Your thermostat is the heart of your apartment's comfort system, and using it wisely can make a huge difference, especially in North Texas where the heat is real and relentless.

The sweet spot: 78°F when you're home

According to Trane, this is the ideal setting to stay comfortable and energy-conscious during hot summer days. 

Going out? Turn it up to 85°F

Direct Energy says this small change can lead to significant energy savings. There’s no need to cool an empty apartment! 

Smart thermostats = Cool convenience

Many Camden communities across DFW have programmable thermostats. So, whether you're enjoying a day at the Dallas Zoo or shopping at Frisco’s Stonebriar Mall, you can enjoy your day in peace, knowing your home will be ready and cool when you come home. 

Bonus: Submit a service request for a new air filter every month to maintain your HVAC system and improve air flow. 

Photo courtesy of Unsplash

Let the Air Flow: Fans Are Your Best Friend

North Texas heat might be no joke, but fans can help you feel 4–5 degrees cooler without touching the thermostat.

Set ceiling fans to spin counterclockwise. This pushes cooler air down to where you actually feel it. The switch is on the side of the ceiling fan, so you will need a ladder to reach it. Our maintenance team would be more than happy to help with this. 

Use box or oscillating fans near windows in the morning or evening to bring in some natural ventilation. Yes, we do get breezy evenings sometimes!

Bonus: Fans cool people, not rooms. Turn them off when you're not there to save even more energy.

Block the Blaze: Sun-Proof Your Apartment

In a place like DFW, where the sun can feel like it’s parked right outside your window, shade is everything.

Blackout curtains or reflective blinds can significantly lower room temperatures. According to The Guardian, strategic window treatments can reduce indoor heat by up to 15°F. 

Balcony plants = natural shade

Add some leafy green friends to your patio or balcony to cool down the air and give your space some summer vibes.

Cool Kitchens, Cooler Apartments

Cooking during the summer can turn your kitchen into a sauna. Don’t let dinner time derail your chill.

Use your microwave or air fryer instead of the oven. They generate way less heat and still get the job done.

Unplug electronics when not in use. Devices like TVs and game consoles emit heat even when they’re "off."

LED bulbs = less heat, less energy. Swap out old light bulbs and make your space more efficient with LED bulbs.

Bonus: Got a light bulb out or flickering? Put in a service request for Camden’s maintenance team to replace it. 

Living Cool with Camden in DFW

One of the best parts about living at Camden? Our DFW apartment communities are built with energy efficiency and comfort in mind. From programmable thermostat compatibility to well-insulated doors, your Camden apartment is designed to handle the Texas heat — so you don’t have to!

Plus, with perks like on-site maintenance, beautiful pools, and spacious, airy layouts, staying cool in the summer is just part of everyday life here.

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The Bottom Line: You + Camden + Smart Habits = A Chill Summer

North Texas summers are no joke, but that doesn’t mean you have to suffer (or overspend). A few smart changes, like adjusting your thermostat, using fans the right way, and cutting down on indoor heat, can go a long way in keeping your apartment cool and your energy use low.

And when you live at Camden, you get more than just a place to live, you get a community that makes smart, stylish, and energy-conscious living easy and enjoyable.

So go ahead, kick back, sip that lemonade, and enjoy your summer. Camden’s got your comfort covered!

Looking for a new apartment in DFW that helps you live cooler and smarter?

Explore Camden communities across Dallas, Frisco, Plano, and beyond. We’ve got your perfect apartment home waiting.