Heat-Blocking Shutters and More Tips To Beat The Summer Heat

June 05, 2017

Summer’s knocking on our door. And though many folks were wishing it was here way back in December, some might not be ready for the warmer weather.

But there’s no need to sweat it, Sunburst Shutters St. George has your back with a few pointers to get you ready to beat the heat 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 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 make a huge dent in how hot your home gets. Just take a look!

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

Modern lounge with plantation shutters

Keep in mind that heat-blocking ability isn’t just a boon during summer. If you’re having a similar conversation about how to survive the cold once winter gets close, plantation shutters might be your perfect solution.

Improve Your Energy Efficiency

Effective window treatments like shutters can improve your energy efficiency, but there’s more room for improvement. By doing any or all of these smaller tasks, you can decrease your home’s energy waste, which contributes to higher temperatures inside:

Make sure all your AC ducts are tightly sealed and insulated. In addition, replace your air filter every 4-6 weeks to keep your system in top performing shape.
Switch away from wasteful incandescent light bulbs. With LEDs or CFL lights, you can reduce the heat emitted by your light bulbs without sacrificing brightness.
If some of your appliances are several years old, think about switching them with newer, more efficient ones. Some appliances such as the stove, water heater, and furnace contribute to a large amount of the heat inside your house.

More Ways To Remain Cool During The St. George Summer

Even though these projects may not dramatically improve your home’s energy efficiency, they still let you keep your home cool when the mercury goes up:

Check that your ceiling fans are running counter-clockwise, so they push cold air downward. If your fans are moving clockwise, there’s likely a small switch on the fan itself that reverses the direction of the blades.

St. George living room with fan and shutters

Look into using a dehumidifier, especially in areas that are used the most during the day. Lower air humidity makes it easier for your AC to cool your home, and dryer air tends to be cooler on the skin.
For homes that have many south-facing windows without shutters on them, consider putting up an awning or canopy to prevent the ever-present sun from beating down on them.

Call Sunburst To Help You Beat The Heat

We’ve helped Utahians treat their windows for years, so we’re familiar with how to keep cool in the summer. If you’d like to last through the season without a sweat, give us a call at 435-485-9332 today or fill out our free consultation form below. Together we can beat the heat and enjoy the St. George summer.

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