Heat Gain Prevention Tips

Man in a blue shirt does window installation.

When you are in the middle of summer, it can be difficult to keep heat gain out of your Harriman home even if you have your central air conditioning system going full blast. Our team at Central City Heating & Air Conditioning wants to help you prevent heat from building up inside your home as much as possible, so that your air conditioner can be more effective and efficient. Here are some tips to consider.

Block Sun From Outside

Although this is more of a long-term solution, consider planting shady, fast-growing trees around your home to block out the rays of the sun. According to the US Department of Energy (DOE), the air temperature under the canopy of a tree can be up to 25 degrees Fahrenheit cooler than above an asphalt road.

Block Sun From Inside

While trees can help block the sun from the outside, quality window coverings hung on the inside of your Tennessee home can also reduce heat gain. If you can’t afford to invest in window coverings for your entire home, start with coverings for your south-facing windows first. 

Install a Cooler Roof

When it’s time to replace your roof, consider investing in a cooler roof option. Developments in roofing materials can provide you with one that absorbs less heat than a conventional rooftop. Some may use a special reflective paint or covering. 

Highly reflective, or very light color roofing shingles and tiles are available as well. By switching roofing materials, you can reduce the amount of energy that’s required to keep your home cooler in the summer.

Select a Lighter Exterior Color

If you regularly paint your home, be sure to select a lighter color to reflect the sun’s heat instead of absorbing it. Just as wearing white clothing keeps you cooler than if you wear black, the color of the exterior of your home will help reduce heat gain in your home.

Upgrade Insulation

You probably think of insulation when you think of conserving heat in the winter. However, good insulation around windows and in your home can also lock in cooler air during the summer. Be sure your windows seal well when closed, and your insulation is adequate.

Reduce Heat-Generating Activities

Many modern-day appliances, and your overall living activities, generate extra heat inside your home. Consider reducing your heat gain by reducing or relocating these activities as much as possible. 

For example, consider grilling or cooking outside to reduce the amount of heat generated by your stove and oven. Let your dishes air dry instead of using the heat setting on your dishwasher. And consider bringing back the old-fashioned clothesline instead of running your clothes dryer on a hot setting.

Even small things like switching to LED lightbulbs and turning off electronics you are not using can reduce the amount of heat inside your home.

Maintain Your Air Conditioning System

Regular maintenance is a great way to ensure your air conditioning system is working efficiently and at maximum capacity when you need it. At least once a year, hire a professional to come out and inspect your air conditioner, and perform needed maintenance. 

Regular maintenance includes cleaning your air conditioner, inspecting components, looking for safety issues, and completing preventative maintenance tasks. These tasks can boost your system’s efficiency and help make the system last longer. But, remember, when it is time to invest in a new air conditioner, you will gain both performance and efficiency with the latest design features, and can increase your energy savings significantly over an old existing system.

Check with our Central City Heating & Air Conditioning professionals about inspecting your air ducts and vent system as well. Our experts can find duct leaks and insulation problems which can be easily fixed to maximize the amount of cooling that reaches your living space, helping to combat heat gain.

Contact Us Today

Call our professional team at Central City Heating & Air Conditioning in Harriman, Tennessee, for more information on how to prevent heat gain even further. Give us a ring at 865-717-9191 or request service online today.

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