• Replace your window curtains with a style that has a white backing on the window side, and then close them during the day. The U.S. Department of Energy says the heat-deflecting white can reduce the amount of heat that gets into the house by up to 45 percent.
  
  
• Hang window awnings on south-, west- and east-facing windows. DOE says you can reduce solar heat gain on the hottest days by up to 65 percent on south-facing windows and 77 percent on west-facing windows by covering them with awnings.
  
  
• Try sun screens. These are different from insect screens. Sometimes called solar shades, they are made from see-through mesh that’s woven tight enough to block a lot of heat and UV rays, but transparent enough that you can see through them, so they don’t block your view.
  
  
• Plant shade trees near windows that get the most sunlight during the summer. A young tree won’t keep you cool this year, but as it grows, it will keep more sun out and allow your home to stay cooler all day.
  
  
• Caulk around windows and doors to keep your air conditioned air in the house and the hot air out. Also, look for and patch other holes in indoor walls that are on the perimeter of the house—especially around electrical, cable and phone outlets.
  

Back to Energy News >>