Heat-Stopping Shutters and Other Ways To Keep Your Home Cool

June 05, 2017

Summer is creeping up fast in Detroit. And while lots of people were longing for summer weather way back in February, some might not be prepared for the warmer weather.

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

Interior Shutters Block Summer Heat

The path most of that sweaty summer heat takes to get into your home is through your windows. By installing window treatments designed for energy efficiency, such as plantation shutters, you can bring down the ambient temperature in your house this summer. Just take a look!

The numbers are in: Polywood® plantation shutters have been proven to block almost 50% of the heat energy that comes in through your windows. In some cases, that can mean up to a 30° difference in temperature! Keep the shutters closed during the daytime to block the sunlight and heat, then open them during the evening to let the cooler night air move through your home.

Chic parlor with classic 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 beat the cold once winter comes, plantation shutters might be your best match.

Make Your House More Energy Efficient

Effective window treatments like shutters can up your energy efficiency, but it doesn’t stop there. By doing some of these smaller projects, you can decrease energy waste, which can lead to higher temperatures indoors:

Double check that your AC ducts are sealed and insulated properly. Also, replace your air filter every month to keep your system in top performing shape.
Don’t use wasteful incandescent light bulbs. With LED bulbs or CFL lamps, you can reduce the heat given off by your light bulbs without giving up brightness.
If your appliances are pretty old, think about swapping them out with newer, more efficient versions. Certain appliances like the stove, water heater, and furnace make up a large amount of the heat inside your house.

More Ways To Keep Cool During The Detroit Summer

Though these projects may not drastically increase your house’s energy efficiency, they’re still effective ways to keep cool as the mercury rises:

Check that your ceiling fans are turning counter-clockwise, so that the cold air is pushed downward. If your fans are spinning clockwise, find the small switch on the fan itself that changes the blades’ direction.

Detroit sunroom with fan and shutters

Think about running a dehumidifier, especially in rooms that are used the most in your home. Less humidity in the air makes it easier for your AC to keep your home cool, and dryer air tends to be cooler on the skin.
For homes that have many south-facing windows that don’t have shutters covering them, think about hanging a canopy or awning to prevent the ever-present sun from pouring down on them.

Let Us Help You Beat The Heat

We’ve been helping Michiganians treat their windows for years, so we know a little bit about what it takes to stay cool in the summer. To last through the season without a sweat, give us a call at 248-429-9294 today or fill out our free consultation form below. Together we can beat the heat and have a great Detroit summer.

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