Signs of spring are just starting to make themselves known, and before you know it, summer will be here in full force. Long days with intense heat are common in Arizona and Colorado during the summer, driving many people indoors to beat the heat. While air conditioning can help keep a home cool, it’s a costly (and not very environmentally friendly) way to lower the temperature in your home. But there’s good news! You can reduce your air conditioning usage by making the most of your home’s windows to regulate the temperature. Here’s how:
Check for drafts. The first thing to do to prepare your windows for the summer is to check for drafts around the frame. If you feel air flow, caulk or apply weatherstripping to block it. This will prevent hot air from coming into your home in the summer and stop cool air from exiting. If the window is still drafty, it may be time to replace it.
Invest in window treatments. It’s amazing how much of a difference window treatments can make in keeping your house cool, but only if you use them properly! Pull down your blinds and close your curtains during the hottest parts of the day to block direct sunlight from entering your house. This small act will greatly reduce the amount of heat gain your home experiences during the day.
Upgrade to energy-efficient windows. Windows are an important insulating force in the home, and high-quality, energy-efficient windows are critical in preventing unwanted heat loss or gain. Look for ENERGY STAR-certified windows that are double—or triple-paned with argon gas spacers. The gas creates an insulating barrier that keeps the warm air out and the cold air in. Low-emissive, or low-E, glass is also recommended to prevent the transfer of heat between the window panes.
Choose light-colored frames. It’s not all about the type of glass you select for your window; the framing matters, too! Vinyl window frames provide the most insulation and are among the most durable. Since frames can absorb heat, the lighter the color of the frame, the less heat will be transferred inside your home.
Add sunscreens. Another common way to keep out the sun, especially in Arizona, is to utilize sunscreens. Designed to block heat transfer, sun screens keep the temperature down inside your home while reducing glare. They also provide privacy; these screens look dark from the outside but provide a clear view of the outdoors from the inside.
The time to prepare your windows for the summer heat is now! If your windows aren’t as energy efficient as you’d like, True View can help you find new windows to keep you comfortable this summer. To learn more, contact your local True View store today.
A note from Ron & Deb: