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

June 05, 2017

Summer’s creeping up fast in Austin. And though many people were wishing it was here way back in December, some might not be prepared for the heat that summer brings.

But don’t sweat it, Sunburst Shutters Austin has your back with 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.

Indoor Shutters Can Cool Your Home

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 greatly reduce the ambient temperature in your space this summer. Just take a look!

The numbers don’t lie: Polywood® plantation shutters have been shown to block almost 50% of the heat 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 open them during the evening to let the cool night air move through your home.

Chic parlor with plantation shutters

Bear in mind that heat-blocking ability isn’t just a boon during the summer months. If you’re having the same talk about how to survive the cold once winter is here, plantation shutters could be your perfect solution.

Make Your Space More Energy Efficient

Effective window insulators like shutters can up your energy efficiency, but there’s more room for improvement. By doing some of these smaller tasks, you can decrease energy waste, which can lead to higher temperatures indoors:

Check to see that your AC ducts are properly sealed and insulated. In addition, replace your air filter every 4-6 weeks to keep your system in top performing shape.
Toss out your old inefficient incandescent light bulbs. With LED bulbs or CFL lamps, you’ll reduce the heat radiated by your light bulbs without giving up brightness.
If your appliances are a little older, think about replacing them with newer, more efficient updates. Certain appliances such as your oven, water heater, and furnace make up a good amount of the heat your home generates.

More Ways To Keep Cool In The Austin Heat

Though these simpler projects may not drastically improve energy efficiency in your home, they’re still effective ways to stay cool as the mercury starts climbing:

Make sure your ceiling fans are turning counter-clockwise, so that the cold air is pushed downward. If your fans are spinning clockwise, find the small switch on the fan itself that alternates the blades’ direction.

Austin living room with fan and shutters

Think about using a dehumidifier, particularly in areas that are the most used in your home. Less humidity in the air means it’s easier for your AC unit to cool your home, and dryer air tends to be cooler on the skin.
If your home has a lot of south-facing windows that don’t have shutters on them, consider hanging an awning or canopy to prevent the relentless sun’s rays from beating down on them.

Let Us Help You Beat The Heat

Sunburst has helped Austinites treat their windows for years, so we’re experts in how to stay comfortable during the summer. To overcome the season without a sweat, give us a ring at 512-549-6077 today or fill out our free consultation form below. Together we can beat the heat and enjoy the Austin summer.

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