Using Solar Shades to Reduce A/C Costs

You might be surprised at how much solar heat comes through sun-facing windows in your home. While this can help heat your home and save on energy during the winter months, it wreaks havoc on home cooling and energy use during the cooling season. Even traditional curtains and drapes can’t keep all of that solar heat from warming up the inside air.

Luckily, solar shades are an available option. They’re manufactured from materials specially designed to block sunlight and ultraviolet radiation. They have other benefits as well. Following are the main reasons why you should consider solar shades in your Corpus Christi-area home:

• As mentioned, they do a good job of keeping uncomfortable solar heat and distracting sunlight outside. Home comfort is enhanced, and you’ll protect your eyes from harmful glare. The reduced solar heating also allows you to reduce air conditioning, saving on energy. During mild weather, by using ceiling fans, you might even be able to turn off the air conditioning with the help of solar shading. Conservation of energy, over time, can add up to impressive savings.
• They protect you from dangerous ultraviolet rays and maladies linked to ultraviolet light such as skin cancer. For family members with sunlight allergies, this is an essential benefit.
• In the winter, solar shades actually act as insulation, keeping valuable heat inside.
• Solar shading protects furniture, carpeting, and electronics from the damaging effects of sunlight. You don’t have to watch as aging drapes and curtains slowly lose their color and luster.
• You have a clearer view of the outside with solar shading, unlike curtains, drapes, and blinds that block any views of the outside.
• Finally, solar shades are attractive alternatives to conventional widow coverings. They come in different sizes, designs, and shapes and can adapt to nearly any room. While they do cost a bit more than traditional curtains, blinds, drapes, or shutters, the emerging savings and enhanced comfort are well worth the cost.

To discuss the many benefits that solar shades can bring to your Coastal Bend home, please contact us at CCAC, Inc.

Our goal is to help educate our customers in Corpus Christi, Texas about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems). For more information about solar shades and other HVAC topics, download our free Home Comfort Guide or call us at 361-678-2495.

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