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

June 05, 2017

Summer’s knocking on our door. And while a lot of people were longing for summer weather way back in January, some might not be ready for the heat that summer brings.

But you shouldn’t sweat it, Sunburst Shutters Orlando has a few tips to get you ready to stay comfortable when the thermostat’s on the fritz, from heat-blocking shutters to ways to make your AC unit work more efficiently.

Indoor Shutters Can Cool Your Home

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

The numbers don’t lie: Polywood® plantation shutters have been proven to block nearly half of the heat energy that normally passes through windows. In some cases, that can result in a 30 degree temperature difference! Keep the shutters closed during the day to keep out heat and sunlight, then let them open up at night to let the cool evening air flow through your home.

Chic sunroom with classic shutters

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

Make Your Space More Energy Efficient

Effective window insulators like shutters can make your home more energy efficient, but it doesn’t stop there. By doing any or all of these smaller projects, you can decrease your home’s energy waste, which contributes to higher temperatures indoors:

Double check that your air conditioning ducts are properly sealed and insulated. In addition, replace your air filter every month to keep your system in top performing shape.
Toss out your old energy-hogging incandescent light bulbs. With LEDs or CFL lights, you can reduce the heat emitted by your light bulbs without sacrificing brightness.
If any of your appliances are a little older, consider switching them with newer, more efficient ones. Some appliances such as the oven, water heater, and furnace contribute to a large amount of the heat inside your house.

Other Ways To Stay Cool During The Orlando Summer Heat

Although these simpler projects may not dramatically improve energy efficiency in your home, they still let you keep your home cool as the mercury starts climbing:

Check that your ceiling fans are going counter-clockwise, so they move cold air downward. If your fans are spinning clockwise, look for a small switch on the fan itself that changes the direction.

Orlando living room with fan and shutters

Think about using a dehumidifier, particularly in rooms that are the busiest in your home. Less humidity in the air makes it easier for your AC system to keep your home cool, and dryer air usually feels cooler on the skin.
If your home has a lot of south-facing windows without any shutters covering them, consider hanging a canopy or awning to prevent the ever-present summer sun from beating down on them.

Call Sunburst To Help You Beat The Heat

Sunburst has helped Floridians cover their windows for years, so we’re familiar with what it takes to keep cool in the summer. To last through the season without a sweat, call us at 407-630-7011 today or fill out our free consultation form below. Working together we can beat the heat and have a great Orlando summer.

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