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

June 05, 2017

Summer’s creeping up fast in Clearwater. And while a lot of people were begging for summer to get here way back in February, some might not be prepared for the summer heat.

But don’t sweat it, Sunburst Shutters Clearwater has your back with a few pointers to get you ready to beat the heat when the temperatures start getting high, from heat-blocking shutters to ways to get your AC working better.

Interior Shutters Can Cool Your Home

The way most of that sweaty summer heat comes inside your home is through your windows. By installing window treatments designed for energy efficiency, such as plantation shutters, you can make a huge dent in how hot your home gets. Just take a look!

The science doesn’t lie: 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 result in a 30 degree temperature difference! Keep the shutters shut during the day to block the sunlight and heat, then let them open up during the evening to let the cool night air flow through your house.

Chic lounge with casement shutters

Remember that heat-blocking ability isn’t just good during summer. If you’re having a similar conversation about how to survive the cold once winter comes, plantation shutters could be your perfect solution.

Improve Your Home’s 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 any or all of the following smaller projects, you can decrease your home’s energy waste, which can lead to higher temperatures indoors:

Make sure all your air conditioning ducts are sealed and insulated properly. Also, change out your air filter every 4-6 weeks to keep your system in top performing shape.
Switch away from wasteful incandescent light bulbs. With CFLs or LED bulbs, you can reduce the heat given off by your light bulbs without giving up brightness.
If any of your appliances are pretty old, consider swapping them out with newer, more efficient ones. Some appliances like the stove, furnace, and water heater make up a large chunk of the heat inside your house.

More Ways To Remain Cool In The Clearwater Summer

Though these simpler projects might not drastically improve your home’s energy efficiency, they can still keep your home cool as the mercury goes up:

Make sure your ceiling fans are turning counter-clockwise, so they push cold air downward. If your fans are spinning clockwise, find the small switch on the fan’s body that reverses the direction of the blades.

Clearwater living room with fan and shutters

Consider running a dehumidifier, particularly in rooms that are the busiest in your home. Less humidity in the air means it’s easier for your AC to cool your home, and dryer air usually feels cooler on the skin.
For homes that have many south-facing windows without shutters on them, think about hanging a canopy or awning to prevent the ever-present sun’s rays from pouring down on them.

Let Us Help You Beat The Heat

We’ve helped Floridians cover their windows for years, so we’re experts in how to keep cool during the summer. If you want to last through the season without a sweat, give us a call at 813-580-7288 today or fill out our free consultation form below. Working together we can beat the heat and have a great Clearwater summer.

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