The Reason Older Homes Often Struggle During Extreme Heat

May 26, 2026

Older homes face significant challenges during extreme heat because they were constructed before modern energy efficiency standards existed. These properties typically have inadequate insulation, outdated ventilation systems, aging windows, and less efficient cooling equipment that struggle to maintain comfortable indoor temperatures. Heat enters easily through poorly insulated attics and walls while cooled air escapes, forcing air conditioning systems to run continuously without achieving desired results.

Who is affected

Homeowners of older properties (particularly homes built in the 1940s-1950s)
Occupants of homes with outdated insulation, ventilation, and cooling systems
Property buyers concerned about energy efficiency and utility costs
Residents in areas where temperatures have risen significantly since the 1970s

What action is being taken

No explicit ongoing actions are described in the article. The article discusses potential actions homeowners can take but does not describe actions currently being implemented.

Why it matters

Older homes are increasingly unable to cope with extreme heat as temperatures across the continental United States have risen about 60% more than the global average since the 1970s. This creates dangerous living conditions during heat waves, drives up cooling costs substantially, reduces property values, and affects homeowner comfort and safety. The inadequate thermal performance of aging homes represents both a health risk during extreme weather events and a significant financial burden through inefficient energy use and potential property devaluation.

What's next

No explicit next steps stated in the article

Read full article from source: The San Diego Voice & Viewpoint