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

June 05, 2017

Summer’s creeping up fast in Boise. And though lots of people were begging for summer to get here way back in January, some may not be prepared for the warmer weather.

But you shouldn’t sweat it, Sunburst Shutters Boise has a few tips to get you ready to beat the heat when the temperatures start getting high, from heat-blocking shutters to ways to make your AC unit work more efficiently.

Indoor Shutters Block Summer Heat

The path most of that sweltering summer heat takes to get into your house is through your windows. By installing window treatments designed for energy efficiency, such as plantation shutters, you can bring down the ambient temperature in your home this summer. Just take a look!

The numbers are in: Polywood® plantation shutters are shown to block up to 45% of the thermal energy that normally passes through windows. In some cases, that can result in a 30° difference in temperature! Make sure your shutters are closed during the daytime to block the heat and sunlight, then open them at night to let the cooler night air move through your house.

Chic sunroom with white shutters

Bear in mind that energy efficiency isn’t just a boon during summer. If you’re having a similar conversation about how to survive the cold once winter comes, plantation shutters might be your best solution.

Make Your Home More Energy Efficient

Great window treatments like shutters can improve your energy efficiency, but it doesn’t stop there. 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:

Double check that your AC ducts are tightly sealed and insulated. Also, replace your air filter every 4-6 weeks to keep your system in top form.
Don’t use inefficient incandescent light bulbs. With LEDs or CFL lights, you can reduce the heat emitted by your light bulbs without sacrificing brightness.
If any of your appliances are a little older, think about replacing them with newer, more efficient versions. Some appliances like the oven, furnace, and water heater contribute to a good amount of the heat your home generates.

More Ways To Keep Cool During The Boise Heat

Though these smaller projects might not dramatically increase your home’s energy efficiency, they’re still effective ways to stay cool as the mercury starts climbing:

Make sure your ceiling fans are running counter-clockwise, so that the cold air is pushed downward. If your fans are spinning clockwise, there’s likely a small switch on the fan’s body that changes the blades’ direction.

Boise living room with fan and shutters

Look into using a dehumidifier, particularly in rooms that you spend the most time during the day. Decreased humidity makes it easier for your AC to cool your home, and dryer air tends to be cooler on the skin.
If your home has a lot of south-facing windows without shutters covering them, think about putting up a canopy or awning to block the ever-present sun’s rays from beating down on them.

Call Sunburst To Help You Beat The Heat

We’ve been helping Idahoans treat their windows for years, so we’re experts in how to keep cool at summertime. To make it through the season without a sweat, call us at 208-609-9129 today or fill out our free consultation form below. Together we can beat the heat and have a great Boise summer.

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