Heat-Blocking Shutters and Other Tips To Cool Down Your Home

June 05, 2017

Summer’s creeping up fast in Philadelphia. And while a lot of people were longing for summer weather way back in December, some may not be prepared for the summer heat.

But you shouldn’t sweat it, Sunburst Shutters Philadelphia has a few pointers to get you ready to stay cool when the mercury starts rising, from heat-blocking shutters to ways to make your AC unit work more efficiently.

Plantation Shutters Keep You Cool

The way most of that sweltering summer heat comes inside your home is through your windows. By putting in window treatments designed to block temperature flow, like plantation shutters, you can greatly reduce the ambient temperature in your home this summer. Just take a look!

The numbers are in: Polywood® plantation shutters are shown to block up to 45% of the heat energy that comes in through your windows. In some cases, that can result in a 30 degree difference in temperature! Keep the shutters shut during the daytime to block the sunlight and heat, then let them open up during the evening to let the cooler evening air move through your house.

Modern lounge with casement shutters

Bear in mind that energy efficiency isn’t just good during the summer months. If you’re having the same talk about how to survive the cold once winter gets close, plantation shutters may be your best match.

Up Your Home’s Energy Efficiency

Great window treatments like shutters can up your energy efficiency, but there’s more room for improvement. By doing any or all of the following smaller projects, you can decrease your home’s energy waste, which contributes to higher temperatures indoors:

Make sure all your air conditioning ducts are sealed and insulated properly. Also, replace your air filter every month to keep your system in peak performing shape.
Switch away from inefficient incandescent light bulbs. With LEDs or CFL lights, you can reduce the heat given off by your light bulbs without reducing brightness.
If your appliances are pretty old, think about switching them with newer, more efficient updates. Some appliances like your stove, furnace, and water heater contribute to a large amount of the heat in your space.

Other Ways To Remain Cool During The Philadelphia Heat

Although these smaller projects might not dramatically improve your house’s energy efficiency, they’re still effective ways to keep cool as the mercury rises:

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

Philadelphia sunroom with fan and shutters

Look into using a dehumidifier, particularly in rooms that you spend the most time in your home. Decreased humidity means it’s easier for your AC unit to keep your home cool, and dryer air tends to be cooler on the skin.
If your home has many south-facing windows that don’t have any shutters covering them, consider hanging an awning or canopy to block the unyielding sun’s rays from pouring down on them.

Let Sunburst Help You Beat The Heat

We’ve been helping Pennsylvanians cover their windows for years, so we know a little bit about what it takes to stay comfortable in the summer. To last through the season without a sweat, give us a ring at 215-874-4897 today or fill out our free consultation form below. Together we can beat the heat and have a great Philadelphia summer.

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