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

June 05, 2017

Summer’s just around the bend. And while a lot of folks were begging for summer to get here way back in December, some might not be prepared for the summer heat.

But you shouldn’t sweat it, Sunburst Shutters Indianapolis has a few tips to get you ready to stay cool when the thermostat’s on the fritz, from heat-blocking shutters to ways to reduce the strain on your AC unit.

Interior Shutters Keep You Cool

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

The numbers are in: Polywood® plantation shutters have been shown to block nearly half of the thermal energy that comes in through your windows. In some cases, that can result in a 30 degree 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 move through your home.

Chic lounge with casement shutters

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

Make Your Home More Energy Efficient

Great window treatments like shutters can up your energy efficiency, but there’s more room for improvement. By doing some of these smaller jobs, you can decrease your home’s energy waste, which contributes to higher temperatures inside:

Double check that your air conditioning ducts are tightly sealed and insulated. Also, change out your air filter every 4-6 weeks to keep your system in top form.
Switch away from energy-hogging incandescent light bulbs. With LEDs or CFL lights, you’ll reduce the heat emitted by your light bulbs without giving up brightness.
If some of your appliances are pretty old, consider switching them with newer, more efficient versions. Some appliances such as your oven, water heater, and furnace make up a good amount of the heat your home generates.

Other Ways To Remain Cool In The Indianapolis Summer Heat

Even though these simpler projects might not dramatically increase energy efficiency in your home, they can still keep your home cool when the mercury starts climbing:

Ensure your ceiling fans are turning counter-clockwise, so they push cold air downward. If your fans are turning clockwise, find the small switch on the fan itself that changes the blades’ direction.

Indianapolis sunroom with fan and shutters

Consider using a dehumidifier, particularly in the room or two you spend the most time in your home. Less humidity in the air makes it easier for your AC to cool your home, and dryer air is cooler on the skin.
For homes that have many south-facing windows without shutters covering them, think about hanging an awning or canopy to prevent the ever-present sun’s rays from beating down on them.

Let Sunburst Help You Beat The Heat

We’ve helped Hoosiers treat their windows for years, so we’re familiar with how to keep cool during the summer. If you want to make it through the season without a sweat, give us a call at 317-558-9066 today or fill out our free consultation form below. Together we can beat the heat and enjoy the Indianapolis summer.

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