Heat-Blocking Shutters and More Ways To Keep Your Home Cool

June 05, 2017

Summer’s just around the corner. And while lots of folks were longing for summer weather way back in February, some may not be ready for the warmer weather.

But you shouldn’t sweat it, Sunburst Shutters Baltimore has a few tips to get you ready to stay cool when the mercury starts rising, from heat-blocking shutters to ways to get your AC working better.

Plantation Shutters Can Cool Your Home

The path most of that sweltering summer heat takes to get into your house is through your windows. By installing window treatments designed to block temperature flow, like plantation shutters, you can make a huge dent in how hot your home gets. Just take a look!

The numbers don’t lie: Polywood® plantation shutters have been shown to block almost 50% of the thermal energy that normally passes through windows. In some cases, that can result in a 30 degree difference in temperature! Keep the shutters shut during the day to block the sunlight and heat, then open them during the evening to allow the cool evening air to flow through your home.

Modern lounge with casement shutters

Keep in mind that heat-blocking ability isn’t just a benefit during the summer months. If you’re having the same talk about how to beat the cold once winter gets close, plantation shutters could be your best solution.

Improve Your Energy Efficiency

Effective window insulators like shutters can improve your energy efficiency, but there’s a lot more you can do. By doing some of the following smaller tasks, you can decrease energy waste, which contributes to higher temperatures indoors:

Make sure all your AC ducts are tightly sealed and insulated. Also, replace your air filter every 4-6 weeks to keep your system in top performing shape.
Switch away from wasteful incandescent light bulbs. With LEDs or CFL lights, you can reduce the heat emitted by your light bulbs without giving up brightness.
If your appliances are several years old, think about swapping them out with newer, more efficient updates. Some appliances such as your oven, furnace, and water heater contribute to a large chunk of the heat in your space.

Other Ways To Remain Cool During The Baltimore Summer

Though these projects might not dramatically improve energy efficiency in your home, they’re still good ways to keep cool when the mercury rises:

Check that your ceiling fans are turning counter-clockwise, so that the cold air is pushed downward. If your fans are turning clockwise, there’s likely a small switch on the fan itself that alternates the direction.

Baltimore sunroom with fan and shutters

Consider using a dehumidifier, especially in rooms that are the most used during the day. Lower air humidity makes it easier for your AC to keep your home cool, and dryer air usually feels cooler on the skin.
For homes that have many south-facing windows without shutters covering them, consider putting up a canopy or awning to block out the relentless sun’s rays from beating down on them.

Let Us Help You Beat The Heat

Sunburst has helped Marylanders treat their windows for years, so we’re familiar with how to stay comfortable in the summer. If you want to make it through the season without a sweat, give us a call at 301-321-7998 today or fill out our free consultation form below. Working together we can beat the heat and enjoy the Baltimore summer.

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