During the hot summer months, many people try to keep their homes cool by closing their blinds or shades. The idea is that by blocking out the sun’s rays, they can reduce the amount of heat that enters their home. But does closing blinds really help to keep the heat out? In this blog post, we’ll explore the science behind this popular method of staying cool.
The short answer is yes, closing your blinds can help to keep the heat out of your home. When sunlight enters your home through windows, it heats up the air and surfaces inside. By blocking out the sun’s rays, you can prevent some of this heat from entering your home in the first place.
However, the effectiveness of this method depends on a few factors. First, the type of blinds or shades you have can make a big difference. Thick, insulating blinds such as Paul James Blinds’ very own blackout blinds are the most effective at blocking out heat. They can reduce the amount of heat entering a room by up to 45%, according to the Department of Energy.
Second, the orientation of your windows can also impact how much heat enters your home. East- and west-facing windows receive the most direct sunlight and heat during the day, so closing blinds or shades on these windows can be particularly effective. South-facing windows also receive direct sunlight, but usually at a lower angle, so the impact may not be as significant.
Finally, the amount of insulation in your home also plays a role. If your home is well-insulated, closing blinds or shades can be a very effective way to keep the heat out. However, if your home has poor insulation, the heat may still find its way in through cracks, leaks, or other openings.
It’s also important to note that closing blinds or shades can have other benefits besides reducing heat. They can also provide privacy, reduce glare, and protect furniture and flooring from fading due to UV rays.
In conclusion, closing your blinds or shades can indeed help to keep the heat out of your home, especially if you have thick, insulating blinds and windows that receive direct sunlight. However, it’s just one of many strategies you can use to stay cool during the summer months. Other methods, such as using a fan or air conditioning, keeping windows and doors closed during the hottest part of the day, and using energy-efficient appliances can also help to reduce heat and keep your home comfortable.
