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

June 05, 2017

Summer’s knocking on our door. And though a lot of people were longing for summer weather way back in December, some might not be ready for the summer heat.

But don’t sweat it, Sunburst Shutters Boston has a few tips to get you ready to survive the summer when the temperatures start getting high, from heat-blocking shutters to ways to get your AC working better.

Indoor Shutters Keep You Cool

The way most of that miserable summer heat comes inside your house is through your windows. By installing window treatments designed to block temperature flow, like plantation shutters, you can greatly reduce the ambient temperature in your space this summer. Just take a look!

The numbers are in: Polywood® plantation shutters are proven to block almost 50% of the thermal energy that can move through the windows. In some homes, that can mean up to a 30° temperature difference! Make sure your shutters are shut during the day to block the sunlight and heat, then open them at night to allow the cooler night air to flow through your home.

Modern lounge with white shutters

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

Up 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 the following smaller tasks, you can decrease energy waste, which contributes to higher temperatures indoors:

Check to see that your AC ducts are tightly sealed and insulated. Also, change out your air filter every month to keep your system in top form.
Switch away from energy-hogging incandescent light bulbs. With LED bulbs or CFL lamps, you’ll reduce the heat given off by your light bulbs without giving up brightness.
If your appliances are a little older, consider switching them with newer, more efficient versions. Certain appliances like the oven, water heater, and furnace make up a large chunk of the heat in your space.

Other Ways To Keep Cool In The Boston Summer Heat

Though these simpler projects might not drastically increase your home’s energy efficiency, they’re still effective ways to stay cool when the mercury rises:

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

Boston living room with fan and shutters

Think about running a dehumidifier, especially in rooms that are the busiest in your home. Lower air humidity makes it easier for your AC to keep your home cool, and dryer air is cooler on the skin.
If you have many south-facing windows without shutters on them, think about putting up a canopy or awning to prevent the relentless sun’s rays from beating down on them.

Let Us Help You Beat The Heat

Sunburst has helped Bay Staters treat their windows for years, so we know a little bit about how to keep comfortable at summertime. If you want to make it through the season without a sweat, give us a call at 781-352-2205 today or fill out our free consultation form below. Together we can beat the heat and have a great Boston summer.

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