Air conditioning can be an effective solution to combatting summer heat, but its cost can add up quickly. One cost-cutting measure would be to block out sunlight altogether with blinds, curtains or aluminum foil; alternatively a box fan set up to draw air through its partially open bottom sash and expel hot air through its top can also work effectively.
Window Coverings
Window treatments are a simple and cost-effective way tо enhance the style and functionality оf rental properties. From curtains tо blinds and shades, they control temperature and lighting levels, improving comfort for tenants. Blinds, іn particular, are favored by renters due tо their affordability, low maintenance, and customization options. With various styles, colors, and materials available, blinds can complement any budget and design preference. Popular choices include Venetian blinds, mini blinds, and cellular shades, each offering unique benefits.
To enhance safety and reduce potential hazards, opt for cordless blinds, especially іn homes with children. Moisture-resistant blinds also help prevent mold growth, saving costs and making the property more desirable tо prospective tenants. With a range оf window covering options and casement window replacement ideas, you can easily transform any rental property into a comfortable and stylish space.
Awnings
Awnings provide much-needed shade from the sun's heat and glare, keeping interiors cooler while cutting energy costs and protecting textiles from harmful UV rays that cause them to fade prematurely and degrade over time.
Awning fabrics come in an assortment of colors, patterns and designs to compliment most homes. Some fabrics like Sunbrella offer up to 99% protection from solar heat gain while others such as polyvinyl chloride (PVC)-coated polyester offer additional options.
Awnings protect windows and doors from rain, snow, wind and direct sunlight to keep rooms cool and dry. Awnings have been found to reduce solar heat gain up to 77% for south-facing windows and up to 65% for west-facing windows, especially windows that overheat in the mornings and evenings. Some awnings feature grommets or other openings along the top or sides that can be opened to vent hot air out; permanent or retractable installations are possible depending on preference.
Box Fans
No matter the kind of fan you use to cool your home, a fresh burst of air can provide welcome relief from the summer heat. Although an air conditioning unit cannot offer this natural ventilation option, fans that bring in cooler outside air while expelling hotter air from open windows may provide relief from overheated rooms.
Box fans are an economical, sturdy and user-friendly solution that's great for renters looking for efficient airflow while minimizing energy bills. Plus, select an ENERGY STAR-rated model for even greater energy savings and efficiency!
if you're searching for a traditional style box fan, consider this model that features three quiet speeds and Save-Smart energy efficiency (costing only 2 cents an hour to operate!). With its convenient carrying handle and recessed cord wrap for keeping cords out of sight, this fan is ETL listed for safety with an extended one-year limited warranty.
Wind Ventilation
Wind can be an invaluable asset when it comes to cooling off a rental, depending on its location, building design and climate. Natural ventilation works by allowing warm air from inside a building to enter through openings on its windward side before exiting through exhaust ports on its leeward side and roof. Buoyancy caused by differences between interior air temperature and warmer exterior air can push pressurized columns of dense, evaporatively-cooled air into spaces, rising upwards before emerging again out the ceiling or ridge.
If the windows of your rental building are facing south or west, natural wind can be used to your advantage with window awnings and fans. North-facing windows can benefit from heat reflective window films which reduce solar heat gain by as much as 99%; these passive methods are relatively affordable and easy to implement; their effectiveness depends on wind direction and force; however this could vary daily.
