Heat-Reducing Shutters and Other Ways To Cool Down Your Home

June 05, 2017

Summer is just around the bend. And while a lot of people were wishing it was here way back in February, some might not be prepared for the heat of summer.

But don’t sweat it, Sunburst Shutters San Antonio has a few tips to get you ready to survive the summer when the thermostat’s on the fritz, from heat-blocking shutters to ways to reduce the strain on your AC unit.

Interior Shutters Can Cool Your Home

The way most of that miserable summer heat comes inside your house is through your windows. By installing window treatments designed to block heat, such as plantation shutters, you can greatly reduce the ambient temperature in your space this summer. Just take a look!

The numbers are in: Polywood® plantation shutters have been proven to block almost 50% of the heat energy that comes in through your windows. In some cases, that can mean up to a 30° difference in temperature! Make sure your shutters are shut during the day to block the heat and sunlight, then let them open up during the evening to allow the cool evening air to flow through your home.

Chic sunroom with plantation shutters

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

Improve Your Home’s Energy Efficiency

Great window insulators like shutters can up your energy efficiency, but it doesn’t stop there. By doing some of these smaller jobs, you can decrease energy waste, which can lead to higher temperatures indoors:

Double check that your air conditioning ducts are tightly sealed and insulated. In addition, change out your air filter every 4-6 weeks to keep your system in peak form.
Toss out your old inefficient incandescent light bulbs. With LEDs or CFL lights, you’ll reduce the heat given off by your light bulbs without sacrificing brightness.
If some of your appliances are a little older, consider replacing them with newer, more efficient versions. Certain appliances such as the oven, furnace, and water heater contribute to a large amount of the heat in your space.

More Ways To Keep Cool During The San Antonio Heat

Even though these projects may not dramatically increase energy efficiency in your home, they’re still effective ways to stay cool when the mercury starts climbing:

Ensure your ceiling fans are running counter-clockwise, so they push cold air downward. If your fans are spinning clockwise, there’s likely a small switch on the fan’s body that reverses the direction of the blades.

San Antonio sunroom with fan and shutters

Think about running a dehumidifier, particularly in rooms that are used the most during the day. Decreased humidity makes it easier for your AC to cool your home, and dryer air tends to be cooler on the skin.
If you have many south-facing windows without shutters on them, consider hanging an awning or canopy to block out the unyielding summer sun from pouring down on them.

Call Sunburst To Help You Beat The Heat

Sunburst has helped Texans treat their windows for years, so we’re experts in what it takes to keep comfortable at summertime. To last through the season without a sweat, give us a call at 210-876-0377 today or fill out our free consultation form below. Together we can beat the heat and have a great San Antonio summer.

Back to Blog