Heat-Reducing Shutters and Other Ways To Stay Cool This Summer

June 05, 2017

Summer is creeping up fast in New Brunswick. And though a lot of folks were wishing it was here way back in December, some might not be ready for the heat of summer.

But don’t sweat it, Sunburst Shutters New Brunswick has a few pointers to help you stay cool when the temperatures start getting high, from heat-blocking shutters to ways to reduce the strain on your AC unit.

Plantation Shutters Keep You Cool

The path most of that sweltering summer heat takes to get into your home is through your windows. By putting in window treatments designed to block temperature flow, 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 almost 50% of the thermal energy that normally passes through windows. In some homes, that can result in a 30 degree difference in temperature! Keep the shutters closed during the day to block the heat and sunlight, then let them open up during the evening to allow the cool evening air to flow through your home.

Chic sunroom with casement shutters

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

Up Your Home’s Energy Efficiency

Effective window insulators like shutters can make your home more energy efficient, but it doesn’t stop there. By doing any or all of these smaller jobs, you can decrease your home’s energy waste, which contributes to higher temperatures indoors:

Make sure all your AC ducts are tightly sealed and insulated. Also, change out your air filter every month to keep your system in top performing shape.
Don’t use wasteful incandescent light bulbs. With LEDs or CFL lights, you’ll reduce the heat radiated by your light bulbs without sacrificing brightness.
If some of your appliances are a little older, consider replacing them with newer, more efficient ones. Certain appliances like your stove, furnace, and water heater make up a large amount of the heat your home generates.

Other Ways To Keep Cool During The New Brunswick Summer Heat

Although these projects may not dramatically increase energy efficiency in your home, they’re still good ways to stay cool when the mercury starts climbing:

Check that your ceiling fans are going counter-clockwise, so that the cold air is pushed downward. If your fans are spinning clockwise, look for a small switch on the fan’s body that alternates the direction of the blades.

New Brunswick living room with fan and shutters

Think about running a dehumidifier, especially in the room or two you spend the most time during the day. Decreased humidity makes it easier for your AC system to cool your home, and dryer air tends to be cooler on the skin.
If your home has many south-facing windows without any shutters on them, consider installing an awning or canopy to prevent the ever-present sun’s rays from pouring down on them.

Call Sunburst To Help You Beat The Heat

We’ve helped New Jerseyans treat their windows for years, so we know a little bit about what it takes to stay comfortable during the summer. To make it through the season without a sweat, give us a call at 732-301-6168 today or fill out our free consultation form below. Working together we can beat the heat and enjoy the New Brunswick summer.

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