How to Cool Your West-Facing Windows in Arizona
Phoenix residents are no strangers to scorching weather when temperatures reach over 100 degrees Fahrenheit for months at a time. Our residential and commercial air conditioners work extra hard to keep our spaces cool for large swathes of the year, creating massive (and expensive) demand for electricity. This is why it’s so important to maximize AC efficiency and home insulation value while minimizing external sources of heat gain.
West-facing windows are one of the main sources of excess heat. Shading them from the afternoon sun can lower your cooling costs and help your AC unit run efficiently during the Phoenix summer.
Upgrade Your Windows
Residential and commercial windows are engineered and installed to be more energy efficient. West-facing windows are often equipped with more panes and gas fills to properly insulate and reduce heat. While an investment in energy-efficient windows might eke out a positive ROI decades down the road, replacing windows throughout your home or commercial building represents a significant upfront cost — especially, if you have oddly-shaped windows that require custom fabrication.
Plant Trees or Shrubs
Landscaping is one way to shield a building from harmful UV rays and provide shade. The less sun beating down on exterior walls and windows, the easier it will be to maintain a comfortable climate inside your home without increasing your electric bill. Not only do trees and shrubs have a cooling effect, but they are also a beautiful addition to any yard or outdoor space.
Keep in mind that not all foliage can withstand the Arizona heat or provide the shade you need. You'll want to invest in desert-adapted shade trees to see and feel a difference.
Add Indoor Window Treatments
Tasteful and practical, window coverings are an easy way to minimize sunlight and block heat. Blinds, blackout curtains, and drapes are a quick fix and can be purchased at almost any type of home improvement store or online. Indoor window treatments add to the aesthetic of your décor and can transform any room into a tranquil, cozy environment.
Although they can be affordable, they often aren’t the most efficient choice for west-facing windows. While they minimize the amount of light coming in, the building’s exterior walls still absorb the harsh afternoon sun.
Invest In Outdoor Window Shades and Awnings
If you’ve tried other solutions and aren’t happy with the results, you aren’t out of options just yet. Outdoor window treatments and awnings take window protection to the next level.
The power of complete shade and UV-resistant materials combine to give you an energy-efficient, quality product to cool west-facing windows and walls. Exterior shades are the first line of defense against the heat because they absorb the sun before your home or commercial building will — lowering indoor temperatures by 10 to 15 degrees Fahrenheit.
Outdoor shades and canopies can be customized to fit your many window specifications and are available in a variety of colors to complement your home or business. You can also install roll-down patio shades to prevent UV rays from being absorbed by exterior walls and seating areas.
The diverse array of styles and types of shades gives you practical, attractive options to drive down your energy bill and enhance curb appeal. At Arizona Awnings, we offer the following outdoor shade solutions for residential or commercial properties:
- Retractable fabric awnings
- Spear point awnings
- Dome awnings
- Convex or concave awnings
- Fixed frame awnings
- Patio awnings
- Roll down patio shades
- Shade structures
- Shade sails
Get Your Personalized Estimate for Window Awnings and Shade Structures in Phoenix, Scottsdale, Mesa and Tempe
At Arizona Awnings, we believe energy-efficient awnings and shade structures can significantly lower your electric bill and prolong the life of your AC unit. If you’re ready to reduce heat absorption through your windows and walls, we are here to help.
Call 602-252-3430 and schedule a free on-site consultation with us today.
