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

June 05, 2017

Summer’s creeping up fast in Hartford. And while a lot of people were longing for summer weather way back in December, some might not be ready for the warmer weather.

But you shouldn’t sweat it, Sunburst Shutters Connecticut has your back with a few pointers to help you stay comfortable when the temperatures start getting high, from heat-blocking shutters to ways to reduce the strain on your AC unit.

Indoor Shutters Block Summer Heat

The way most of that sticky summer heat comes inside your house is through your windows. By installing 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 don’t lie: Polywood® plantation shutters have been proven to block almost 50% of the thermal energy that can move through the windows. In some cases, that can result in a 30 degree difference in temperature! Make sure your shutters are shut during the day to keep out sunlight and heat, then let them open up at night to allow the cool evening air to flow through your house.

Chic sunroom with white shutters

Bear in mind that heat-blocking ability isn’t just good during the summer months. If you’re having a similar conversation about how to beat the cold once winter comes, plantation shutters could be your best match.

Make Your House More Energy Efficient

Effective window treatments like shutters can improve your energy efficiency, but there’s a lot more you can do. By doing some of these smaller projects, you can decrease energy waste, which can lead to higher temperatures indoors:

Double check that your air conditioning ducts are sealed and insulated properly. Also, replace your air filter every month to keep your system in top form.
Don’t use energy-hogging incandescent light bulbs. With CFLs or LED bulbs, you’ll reduce the heat emitted by your light bulbs without sacrificing brightness.
If any of your appliances are a little older, consider replacing them with newer, more efficient updates. Certain appliances such as your stove, water heater, and furnace make up a good amount of the heat in your space.

More Ways To Remain Cool In The Hartford Summer

Though these projects may not dramatically increase energy efficiency in your home, they can still keep your house cool when the mercury starts climbing:

Make sure your ceiling fans are running counter-clockwise, so they move cold air downward. If your fans are spinning clockwise, find the small switch on the fan itself that changes the blades’ direction.

Hartford living room with fan and shutters

Consider running a dehumidifier, particularly in the room or two are the busiest during the day. Less humidity in the air makes it easier for your AC to cool your home, and dryer air usually feels cooler on the skin.
For homes that have a lot of south-facing windows that don’t have shutters on them, think about installing an awning or canopy to prevent the unyielding sun’s rays from beating down on them.

Let Sunburst Help You Beat The Heat

Sunburst has helped Connecticuters treat their windows for years, so we’re familiar with how to keep comfortable at summertime. If you want to make it through the season without a sweat, give us a call at 860-266-5459 today or fill out our free consultation form below. Together we can beat the heat and have a great Hartford summer.

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