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

June 05, 2017

Summer’s just around the bend. And though a lot of people were wishing it was here way back in December, some might not be prepared for the warmer weather.

But you shouldn’t sweat it, Sunburst Shutters Chicago has a few pointers to get you ready to beat the heat when the thermostat’s on the fritz, from heat-blocking shutters to ways to make your AC unit work more efficiently.

Plantation Shutters Can Cool Your Home

The path most of that sweltering summer heat takes to get into your house is through your windows. By putting in 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 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° difference in temperature! Make sure your shutters are closed during the day to block the sunlight and heat, then let them open up during the evening to allow the cool night air to flow through your home.

Modern sunroom with interior shutters

Bear in mind that energy efficiency isn’t just good during summer. If you’re having the same talk about how to beat the cold once winter comes, plantation shutters might be your perfect solution.

Improve Your Home’s Energy Efficiency

Effective window treatments like shutters can make your home more energy efficient, but it doesn’t stop there. By doing some of these smaller jobs, you can decrease energy waste, which can lead to higher temperatures indoors:

Check to see that your air conditioning ducts are tightly sealed and insulated. Also, change out your air filter every month to keep your system in peak form.
Don’t use energy-hogging incandescent light bulbs. With LEDs or CFL lights, you’ll reduce the heat radiated by your light bulbs without giving up brightness.
If any of your appliances are a little older, consider swapping them out with newer, more efficient updates. Some appliances like the stove, water heater, and furnace contribute to a good chunk of the heat in your space.

More Ways To Keep Cool In The Chicago Heat

Although these simpler projects may not drastically improve energy efficiency in your home, they still let you keep your house cool as the mercury starts climbing:

Ensure your ceiling fans are running counter-clockwise, so they push cold air downward. If your fans are spinning clockwise, look for a small switch on the fan’s body that alternates the blades’ direction.

Chicago living room with fan and shutters

Look into running a dehumidifier, especially in areas that you spend the most time in your home. Decreased humidity means it’s easier for your AC unit to keep your home cool, and dryer air is cooler on the skin.
For homes that have a lot of south-facing windows without any shutters on them, think about hanging a canopy or awning to block out the ever-present summer sun from beating down on them.

Call Sunburst To Help You Beat The Heat

We’ve been helping Chicagoans cover their windows for years, so we know a little bit about what it takes to stay comfortable at summertime. If you’d like to last through the season without a sweat, give us a ring at 847-250-6544 today or fill out our free consultation form below. Together we can beat the heat and enjoy the Chicago summer.

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