Heat-Reducing Shutters and Other Ways To Beat The Summer Heat

June 05, 2017

Summer’s creeping up fast in Washington DC. And though lots of people were wishing it was here way back in January, some may not be ready for the warmer weather.

But don’t sweat it, Sunburst Shutters DC has a few tips to help you stay comfortable when the mercury starts rising, from heat-blocking shutters to ways to make your AC unit work more efficiently.

Indoor Shutters Block Summer Heat

The way most of that sweaty summer heat comes inside your home is through your windows. By installing 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 science doesn’t lie: Polywood® plantation shutters have been proven to block nearly half of the thermal energy that can move through the windows. In some homes, that can mean up to a 30 degree temperature difference! Make sure your shutters are shut during the day to block the sunlight and heat, then let them open up at night to allow the cooler evening air to flow through your home.

Chic sunroom with casement shutters

Remember that energy efficiency isn’t just good during the summer months. If you’re asking the same questions about how to beat the cold once winter comes around, plantation shutters might be your perfect solution.

Improve Your Energy Efficiency

Effective window insulators 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 jobs, you can decrease your home’s energy waste, which contributes to higher temperatures indoors:

Make sure all your AC ducts are sealed and insulated properly. In addition, change out your air filter every month to keep your system in top performing shape.
Don’t use energy-hogging incandescent light bulbs. With LED bulbs or CFL lamps, you’ll reduce the heat given off by your light bulbs without sacrificing brightness.
If some of your appliances are pretty old, think about switching them with newer, more efficient versions. Certain appliances such as your stove, furnace, and water heater make up a good amount of the heat in your space.

More Ways To Keep Cool During The Washington DC Summer

Even though these smaller projects might not drastically increase your house’s energy efficiency, they still let you keep your house cool as the mercury goes up:

Make sure your ceiling fans are going counter-clockwise, so they push cold air downward. If your fans are spinning clockwise, there’s likely a small switch on the fan itself that changes the direction of the blades.

Washington DC sunroom with fan and shutters

Consider running a dehumidifier, especially in areas that are used the most during the day. Lower air humidity 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 any shutters on them, think about putting up a canopy or awning to block the relentless sun’s rays from beating down on them.

Call Sunburst To Help You Beat The Heat

Sunburst has helped DMVs treat their windows for years, so we’re familiar with what it takes to stay cool during the summer. If you want to make it through the season without a sweat, give us a ring at 240-339-2588 today or fill out our free consultation form below. Together we can beat the heat and enjoy the Washington DC summer.

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