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

June 05, 2017

Summer is knocking on our door. And while many people were longing for summer weather way back in February, some may not be prepared for the warmer weather.

But you shouldn’t sweat it, Sunburst Shutters Honolulu has your back with a few pointers to get you ready to stay comfortable when the temperatures start getting high, from heat-blocking shutters to ways to make your AC unit work more efficiently.

Plantation Shutters Keep You Cool

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

The science doesn’t lie: Polywood® plantation shutters have been proven to block up to 45% 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 daytime to keep out sunlight and heat, then open them at night to allow the cool night air to flow through your house.

Modern sunroom with white shutters

Keep in mind that energy efficiency isn’t just a benefit during the summer months. If you’re having the same talk about how to survive the cold once winter comes, plantation shutters might be your best match.

Make Your Home More Energy Efficient

Great window insulators like shutters can improve your energy efficiency, but there’s a lot more you can do. By doing some of these smaller projects, you can decrease your home’s energy waste, which can lead to higher temperatures inside:

Check to see that your AC ducts are properly sealed and insulated. Also, replace your air filter every month to keep your system in peak form.
Toss out your old energy-hogging incandescent light bulbs. With LEDs or CFL lights, 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 updates. Certain appliances such as the stove, water heater, and furnace contribute to a good chunk of the heat your home generates.

More Ways To Stay Cool During The Honolulu Summer Heat

Although these simpler projects might not drastically improve energy efficiency in your home, they still let you keep your home cool when the mercury rises:

Make sure 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 of the blades.

Honolulu living room with fan and shutters

Look into running a dehumidifier, particularly in rooms that you spend the most time during the day. Less humidity in the air makes it easier for your AC to keep your home cool, and dryer air is cooler on the skin.
If your home has a lot of south-facing windows without shutters on them, think about installing a canopy or awning to prevent the ever-present sun’s rays from pouring down on them.

Let Sunburst Help You Beat The Heat

Sunburst has helped Hawaiians treat their windows for years, so we know a little bit about how to keep comfortable in the summer. If you’d like to overcome the season without a sweat, call us at 808-797-2004 today or fill out our free consultation form below. Together we can beat the heat and enjoy the Honolulu summer.

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