Heat-Reducing Shutters and More Tips To Stay Cool This Summer

June 05, 2017

Summer’s just around the bend. And though a lot of folks were begging for summer to get here way back in December, some might not be prepared for the heat of summer.

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

Indoor Shutters Block Summer Heat

The way most of that sweaty summer heat comes inside your house 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 science doesn’t lie: Polywood® plantation shutters have been shown to block nearly half of the thermal energy that normally passes through windows. In some cases, that can result in a 30 degree temperature difference! Make sure your shutters are shut during the daytime to block the heat and sunlight, then let them open up during the evening to let the cooler evening air move through your house.

Modern sunroom with white shutters

Remember that heat-blocking ability isn’t just a boon during summer. If you’re having the same talk about how to survive the cold once winter comes around, plantation shutters could be your best solution.

Improve Your Energy Efficiency

Effective window insulators like shutters can up your energy efficiency, but there’s more room for improvement. By doing some of these smaller tasks, you can decrease your home’s energy waste, which can lead to higher temperatures inside:

Check to see that your air conditioning ducts are properly sealed and insulated. Also, replace your air filter every 4-6 weeks 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 given off by your light bulbs without sacrificing brightness.
If some of your appliances are several years old, think about swapping them out with newer, more efficient updates. Certain appliances such as your stove, water heater, and furnace make up a large amount of the heat inside your house.

More Ways To Keep Cool During The Fort Myers Heat

Even though these simpler projects might not drastically improve your home’s energy efficiency, they still let you keep your house cool when the mercury starts climbing:

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

Fort Myers sunroom with fan and shutters

Look into using a dehumidifier, especially in areas that are used the most in your home. Less humidity in the air means it’s easier for your AC to keep your home cool, and dryer air is cooler on the skin.
For homes that have a lot of south-facing windows without shutters on them, think about hanging a canopy or awning to prevent the relentless summer sun from pouring down on them.

Let Sunburst Help You Beat The Heat

Sunburst has helped Floridians treat their windows for years, so we know a little bit about what it takes to keep comfortable in the summer. If you want to overcome the season without a sweat, give us a call at 239-208-6577 today or fill out our free consultation form below. Working together we can beat the heat and enjoy the Fort Myers summer.

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