Heat-Blocking Shutters and More Tips To Stay Cool This Summer

June 05, 2017

Summer is knocking on our door. And though a lot of people were longing for summer weather way back in February, some might not be ready for the summer heat.

But there’s no need to sweat it, Sunburst Shutters Houston has your back with a few tips to get you ready to stay cool when the temperatures start getting high, from heat-blocking shutters to ways to make your AC unit work more efficiently.

Interior Shutters Block Summer Heat

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

The numbers don’t lie: Polywood® plantation shutters are proven to block nearly half of the thermal energy that normally passes through windows. In some cases, that can result in a 30° difference in temperature! Keep the shutters shut during the daytime to keep out sunlight and heat, then let them open up at night to allow the cool night air to move through your house.

Modern lounge with interior shutters

Keep in mind that heat-blocking ability isn’t just a benefit during the summer months. If you’re having a similar conversation about how to survive the cold once winter gets close, plantation shutters may be your perfect solution.

Improve Your Home’s Energy Efficiency

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

Check to see that your AC ducts are sealed and insulated properly. Also, replace your air filter every month to keep your system in great performing shape.
Don’t use energy-hogging incandescent light bulbs. With LEDs or CFL lights, you can reduce the heat radiated by your light bulbs without giving up brightness.
If some of your appliances are pretty old, think about swapping them out with newer, more efficient versions. Certain appliances like the stove, furnace, and water heater make up a large chunk of the heat inside your house.

More Ways To Remain Cool In The Houston Summer

Though these projects might not drastically increase your home’s energy efficiency, they still let you keep your home cool when the mercury goes up:

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

Houston sunroom with fan and shutters

Look into running a dehumidifier, particularly in rooms that are used the most in your home. Less humidity in the air means it’s easier for your AC to keep your home cool, and dryer air tends to be cooler on the skin.
For homes that have many south-facing windows without shutters on them, think about putting up a canopy or awning to block the unyielding summer sun from pouring down on them.

Let Sunburst Help You Beat The Heat

We’ve helped Texans cover their windows for years, so we know a little bit about how to keep cool at summertime. If you want to overcome the season without a sweat, give us a ring at 713-853-9629 today or fill out our free consultation form below. Together we can beat the heat and have a great Houston summer.

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