14 Smart Ways to Stay Cool During an Arizona Summer

Arizona summers are no joke, with temperatures regularly climbing into the triple digits. While air conditioning helps, there are plenty of other ways to stay comfortable, save energy, and make the most of the season. Here are 14 expert-recommended tips to help you stay cool this summer.

1. Design Shade Based on the Sun's Path

Expert: Steve Rice, Owner of Lawn Kings

Instead of placing umbrellas or shade structures wherever they fit, Steve Rice recommends designing outdoor spaces around the sun's movement throughout the day. Layering umbrellas, pergolas, covered seating, and strategically placed furniture creates multiple "cool zones" that stay shaded as the sun moves. This simple adjustment can make patios, backyards, and outdoor gatherings much more comfortable.

2. Install a Radiant Barrier in Your Attic

Expert: Saini Rhodes, Real Estate Expert at Clever Offers

If your home's second floor always feels warmer, your attic may be the reason. According to Saini Rhodes, installing a radiant barrier beneath the roof helps reflect heat before it enters your home. The result is cooler indoor temperatures, less strain on your air conditioner, and lower energy bills throughout the summer.

3. Cool Your Body Before Heading Outside

Expert: Joe Benson, Co-Founder of Eversite

Rather than waiting until you're already overheating, Joe Benson recommends cooling your body before stepping outside. A lightly damp towel or cooling neck wrap placed around your neck helps regulate body temperature before the Arizona sun has a chance to take over. It's an easy habit that can make errands and outdoor activities much more comfortable.

4. Wear Breathable Clothing

Expert: David Ratmoko, Owner and Director of Metro Models

David Ratmoko found that lightweight, loose-fitting linen clothing made a noticeable difference during Arizona summers. Natural fabrics allow your body to breathe and help regulate your temperature more effectively than heavier or synthetic materials. Staying comfortable isn't just about escaping the heat—it's also about dressing for it.

5. Time Your Meals and Hydration

Expert: Joseph Jenskins, Nutrition & Fitness Expert at Happy Go Leafy

What you eat can affect how hot you feel. Joseph Jenskins recommends eating lighter meals during the hottest part of the day and drinking water consistently instead of waiting until you're thirsty. Starting your morning with water and electrolytes while saving larger meals for the evening can help your body stay cooler throughout the day.

6. Visit Naturally Cool Destinations

Expert: Kevin Baragona, Founder of Deep AI

Kevin Baragona recommends taking advantage of Arizona's naturally cooler attractions, such as Lava River Cave near Flagstaff. The cave remains around 40 degrees year-round, offering a refreshing escape from the summer heat. Whether it's a cave, mountain town, or forest trail, Arizona offers plenty of naturally cool destinations worth exploring.

7. Cool Your Pulse Points

Expert: Dr. Raymond Douglas, Oculoplastic Surgeon

One of the fastest ways to cool down is by placing a cold towel or ice pack on your wrists and the back of your neck. Dr. Raymond Douglas explains that these pulse points contain blood vessels close to the skin, allowing cooler blood to circulate throughout the body and provide quick relief from the heat.

8. Escape to Higher Elevations

Expert: Dane Maxwell, Founder of Paperless Pipeline

Arizona residents have an advantage many people overlook: cooler temperatures are only a short drive away. Dane Maxwell suggests spending weekends or even workdays in places like Flagstaff, Prescott, or Mount Lemmon, where temperatures can be 20 to 30 degrees cooler than the Valley. A change in elevation can dramatically improve comfort during the hottest months.

9. Run Appliances Early in the Day

Expert: Phoebe Mendez, Marketing Manager at Check CPS

Household appliances like ovens, dryers, and dishwashers generate extra heat inside your home. Phoebe Mendez recommends running these appliances early in the morning or later in the evening to reduce indoor temperatures and help your air conditioner work more efficiently.

10. Find Hidden Heat Sources Around Your Home

Expert: Ryan Nelson, Founder of RentalRealEstate

Ryan Nelson used thermal imaging technology to identify areas where heat was entering his home. While most homeowners won't use a thermal drone, scheduling a home energy audit or checking insulation around windows, doors, and attics can uncover hidden problem areas that contribute to higher indoor temperatures.

11. Block Radiant Heat Before It Enters

Expert: Erin Zadoorian, Co-Founder of Exhale Wellness

Lowering the thermostat isn't always the answer. Erin Zadoorian recommends focusing on reducing radiant heat by closing blinds, using blackout curtains, or installing solar shades during the afternoon. Keeping direct sunlight from heating your home's interior can make rooms feel noticeably cooler without increasing your energy bill.

12. Let Smart Technology Do the Work

Expert: Kyle Bolton, Founder of CrewHR

Smart thermostats and automated climate controls can cool only the rooms you're using, improving both comfort and efficiency. Kyle Bolton recommends scheduling cooling around your daily routine instead of cooling your entire home all day long.

13. Make Hydration More Enjoyable

Expert: Heidi Carney, Executive Vice President of Marketing at True Citrus

Many people simply don't drink enough water during Arizona summers. Heidi Carney suggests adding natural citrus flavors, berries, cucumber, or mint to make water more appealing. When hydration becomes enjoyable, it's easier to drink enough throughout the day and avoid dehydration.

14. Cool Your Home Before the Heat Arrives

Expert: Matt Grammer, Founder and CEO of ESA Letter Online

Matt Grammer recommends cooling your home early in the morning before outside temperatures spike. Close blinds, curtains, and exterior doors before the afternoon heat arrives, and save heat-producing chores like laundry or baking for later in the evening. This strategy helps your air conditioner maintain comfortable temperatures more efficiently.

Beat the Arizona Heat This Summer

Living in Arizona means learning how to work with the desert climate instead of fighting it. Whether it's improving your home's efficiency, planning a quick getaway to higher elevations, or making small adjustments to your daily routine, these expert-backed tips can help you stay cooler, save money, and enjoy everything Arizona has to offer, even during the hottest days of summer.