You’ve been putting off walking to the mailbox for a few days because you know that dreaded energy bill has arrived. Sound like you? You’re not alone. Homeowners across the country are constantly looking for ways to stay cool during the summer months without running to the thermostat. So, you’ve heard people talking about the benefits of window treatments when it comes to keeping your house cool, but do they really work? Find out below! The short answer is, YES! They do in fact, help keep your home cool by blocking out the sun’s warm, penetrating rays throughout the day. But, what are the best types? Here’s a quick guide:
- Blinds – they reduce heat gain in any area of your home by blocking out the sun. In fact, you can reduce gain by up to 45% by keeping blinds closed during the hottest portion of the day.
- Shades – they work in a similar fashion as blinds, but could be a bit too much if you like to allow some natural light in. Keep this in mind while shopping as they do not have openable slats.
- Drapes – drapes are great for both the winter and summer months. During the winter, thicker drapes can help keep heat inside, while they can help keep cool air inside during the summer.
- Awnings – these are great when installed on west and south-facing windows. They can reduce heat gain anywhere from 65% – 75% and they won’t block the view like shades or blinds.
Paired with an energy efficient cooling system, the right window treatments can really make a positive impact on your cooling bills. Call on the cooling experts at Rusk Heating & Cooling today to find out how we can help you find the right cooling system for your home.