At Canacon Construction, we care not only about building quality homes, but also about how they function for you and the planet. With summer temperatures rising across B.C., sustainability becomes especially important. Small changes in how you manage your home during the warmer months can lead to major energy savings, a more comfortable living space, and a reduced environmental footprint.

Here are a few smart, sustainable ways to keep your home cool and eco-conscious this summer:

1. Maximize Natural Ventilation

Rather than relying heavily on air conditioning, take advantage of cooler morning and evening air by:

• Opening windows on opposite sides of the house to create cross-ventilation
• Using ceiling or box fans to keep air moving
• Installing window or door screens to allow airflow while keeping insects out

Pro tip: Try the “night flush” method — open windows at night to let cooler air in, and close them during the day to trap it inside.

2. Use Blinds, Curtains, or Reflective Window Film

Approximately 76% of the sunlight that hits standard double-pane windows is absorbed as heat. Keep your home cooler by:

• Drawing curtains or blinds during the hottest parts of the day
• Installing thermal blackout curtains or reflective window film to reduce heat gain
• Adding exterior shading like awnings or pergolas over sun-exposed windows

3. Switch to Energy-Efficient Cooling Options

If you do use cooling systems, make them as efficient as possible:

• Use programmable thermostats to avoid unnecessary energy use
• Service your AC regularly to ensure optimal performance
• Consider Energy Star-rated ceiling fans and AC units
• Use dehumidifiers on humid days, reducing moisture makes the air feel cooler

4. Reduce Indoor Heat Sources

You can lower indoor temperatures just by rethinking your everyday habits:

• Cook outside or use the BBQ instead of the oven or stove where possible
• Switch to LED lightbulbs, which emit much less heat
• Unplug electronics and chargers when not in use, as they produce heat even on standby

5. Be Smart With Water Usage

Especially during hot summers, water conservation is key:

• Water your lawn early in the morning or late in the evening to minimize evaporation
• Use a rain barrel to collect water for your garden
• Install low-flow fixtures in your home (showerheads, faucets, and toilets)
• Opt for drought-resistant landscaping with native plants that require less water

6. Insulation and Roofing Matter (Even in Summer)

Many people associate insulation with warmth, but it also keeps heat out in the summer. Proper insulation in your attic and walls, along with reflective or light-coloured roofing materials, helps keep your indoor spaces cooler and reduces reliance on AC.

If you’re considering a renovation or upgrade, discuss eco-conscious construction options with us to enhance your home’s year-round energy efficiency.

A Greener Summer Starts at Home

Living sustainably doesn’t mean making enormous sacrifices. With a few intentional changes, you can reduce your energy bills, conserve water, and enjoy a cooler, more comfortable home throughout the summer.

If you’re planning renovations, energy upgrades, or building your dream home, the Canacon team is here to help you integrate sustainability into every step of the process.

Want to build better this summer?
Reach out to our team by email info@canacon.construction or call us at 604.564.5964. We’d love to chat about how to bring your sustainable vision to life.