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

June 05, 2017

Summer’s knocking on our door. And while many folks were wishing it was here way back in February, some may not be prepared for the warmer weather.

But don’t sweat it, Sunburst Shutters New York has your back with a few pointers 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.

Plantation Shutters Block Summer Heat

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 heat, such as plantation shutters, you can have more control over the temperature in your house. Just take a look!

The numbers are in: Polywood® plantation shutters have been shown to block nearly half of the heat energy that can move through the windows. In some homes, that can mean up to a 30° difference in temperature! Make sure your shutters are shut during the daytime to block the heat and sunlight, then open them at night to let the cool night air move through your house.

Modern sunroom with casement shutters

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

Up Your 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 tasks, you can decrease energy waste, which can lead to higher temperatures indoors:

Double check that your AC ducts are properly sealed and insulated. Also, change out your air filter every month to keep your system in great performing shape.
Don’t use wasteful incandescent light bulbs. With LED bulbs or CFL lamps, you’ll reduce the heat radiated by your light bulbs without sacrificing brightness.
If some of your appliances are several years old, think about replacing them with newer, more efficient ones. Some appliances like the oven, furnace, and water heater contribute to a good amount of the heat inside your house.

More Ways To Remain Cool During The New York Summer

Though these smaller projects may not dramatically increase energy efficiency in your home, they still let you keep your home cool when 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 itself that changes the direction.

New York living room with fan and shutters

Consider using a dehumidifier, particularly in the room or two are the most used in your home. Decreased humidity makes it easier for your AC system to cool your home, and dryer air tends to be cooler on the skin.
If you have many south-facing windows that don’t have shutters covering them, think about installing a canopy or awning to block the ever-present sun from beating down on them.

Let Us Help You Beat The Heat

We’ve helped New Yorkers treat their windows for years, so we know a little bit about how to keep cool during the summer. If you want to last through the season without a sweat, call us at 631-246-3930 today or fill out our free consultation form below. Working together we can beat the heat and enjoy the New York summer.

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