Heat-Reducing Shutters and More Tips To Cool Down Your Home

June 05, 2017

Summer is just around the bend. And while many folks were wishing it was here way back in January, some may not be prepared for the warmer weather.

But don’t sweat it, Sunburst Shutters Sacramento has your back with a few pointers to help you stay comfortable when the temperatures start getting high, from heat-blocking shutters to ways to get your AC working better.

Plantation Shutters Block Summer Heat

The path most of that sweaty summer heat takes to get into your home is through your windows. By putting in window treatments designed for energy efficiency, such as plantation shutters, you can greatly reduce the ambient temperature in your home this summer. Just take a look!

The numbers are in: Polywood® plantation shutters have been shown to block up to 45% of the heat energy that normally passes through windows. In some homes, that can result in a 30° temperature difference! Keep the shutters closed during the daytime to keep out sunlight and heat, then open them during the evening to let the cool evening air move through your house.

Chic sunroom with casement shutters

Bear in mind that energy efficiency isn’t just a benefit during summer. If you’re asking the same questions about how to survive the cold once winter comes, plantation shutters could be your perfect solution.

Make Your Home More Energy Efficient

Great window insulators like shutters can make your home more energy efficient, but there’s a lot more you can do. By doing some of these smaller jobs, you can decrease your home’s energy waste, which contributes to higher temperatures indoors:

Make sure all your air conditioning ducts are properly sealed and insulated. Also, replace your air filter every month to keep your system in top performing shape.
Switch away from energy-hogging incandescent light bulbs. With CFLs or LED bulbs, you can reduce the heat radiated by your light bulbs without reducing brightness.
If some of your appliances are pretty old, think about switching them with newer, more efficient versions. Certain appliances such as the oven, water heater, and furnace contribute to a good amount of the heat in your space.

More Ways To Keep Cool In The Sacramento Summer Heat

Though these projects might not drastically increase your home’s energy efficiency, they still let you keep your house cool as the mercury starts climbing:

Check that your ceiling fans are running counter-clockwise, so they push cold air downward. If your fans are moving clockwise, look for a small switch on the fan’s body that alternates the blades’ direction.

Sacramento living room with fan and shutters

Consider using a dehumidifier, particularly in areas that you spend the most time during the day. Less humidity in the air makes it easier for your AC unit to cool your home, and dryer air is cooler on the skin.
If your home has a lot of south-facing windows without shutters covering them, think about hanging a canopy or awning to prevent the ever-present sun from beating down on them.

Call Sunburst To Help You Beat The Heat

We’ve been helping Californians treat their windows for years, so we know a little bit about how to stay comfortable during the summer. To last through the season without a sweat, give us a ring at 916-665-0078 today or fill out our free consultation form below. Working together we can beat the heat and enjoy the Sacramento summer.

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