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

June 05, 2017

Summer’s knocking on our door. And while lots of people were wishing it was here way back in December, some may not be ready for the heat of summer.

But there’s no need to sweat it, Sunburst Shutters Minneapolis has your back with a few tips to help you stay cool when the mercury starts rising, from heat-blocking shutters to ways to get your AC working better.

Interior Shutters Block Summer Heat

The way most of that miserable summer heat comes inside your home is through your windows. By installing window treatments designed to block heat, such as plantation shutters, you can have more control over the temperature in your house. Just take a look!

The numbers don’t lie: Polywood® plantation shutters are shown to block nearly half of the heat energy that can move through the windows. In some cases, that can mean up to a 30 degree temperature difference! Keep the shutters shut during the day to block the heat and sunlight, then let them open up at night to allow the cooler night air to flow through your home.

Modern lounge with plantation shutters

Bear in mind that energy efficiency isn’t just good during the summer months. If you’re asking the same questions about how to survive the cold once winter comes around, plantation shutters might be your best match.

Up Your Home’s Energy Efficiency

Great window treatments like shutters can up your energy efficiency, but there’s more room for improvement. By doing some of the following smaller tasks, you can decrease energy waste, which can lead to higher temperatures indoors:

Double check that your AC ducts are tightly sealed and insulated. In addition, replace your air filter every month to keep your system in great form.
Switch away from inefficient incandescent light bulbs. With CFLs or LED bulbs, you can reduce the heat given off by your light bulbs without reducing brightness.
If any of your appliances are a little older, consider switching them with newer, more efficient ones. Some appliances like the stove, furnace, and water heater make up a large chunk of the heat in your space.

More Ways To Stay Cool In The Minneapolis Heat

Though these projects may not dramatically improve your home’s energy efficiency, they’re still helpful ways to keep cool when the mercury starts climbing:

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

Minneapolis sunroom with fan and shutters

Consider running a dehumidifier, particularly in the room or two you spend the most time in your home. Decreased humidity makes it easier for your AC to cool your home, and dryer air is cooler on the skin.
If you have a lot of south-facing windows that don’t have any shutters on them, consider putting up a canopy or awning to block the relentless sun’s rays from beating down on them.

Let Sunburst Help You Beat The Heat

Sunburst has helped Minnesotans treat their windows for years, so we’re experts in what it takes to keep comfortable in the summer. If you’d like to make it through the season without a sweat, give us a ring at 952-856-8130 today or fill out our free consultation form below. Working together we can beat the heat and have a great Minneapolis summer.

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