As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. There is no extra cost to you. Thank you if you use our links; we appreciate it! Learn More.
When it comes to finding the perfect place to live, there are a lot of factors to consider. But one of the most important things to think about is which direction your home faces. After all, the sun rises in the east and sets in the west, so a room that faces the sun will be filled with natural light all day long.
But there are some major disadvantages too!
If you have a room in your house that faces the sun, you know how difficult it can be to keep cool. The sun can make the room feel like an oven, and it can be hard to get the temperature down, no matter how low you set your air conditioner or how well you prepared your home for the summer. But there are some things you can do to help keep your room cool and comfortable, even when the sun is beating down.
Advantages and disadvantages of a room that faces the sun
There are a lot of advantages to having a room that faces the sun.
- For one, it’s incredibly bright and cheerful. Natural light has been shown to boost your mood and energy levels, so a sun-filled room is a perfect place to start your day.
- Another advantage of a room that faces the sun is that it’s warmer. In the winter, the sun’s rays can help to heat up a room, and in the summer, the room will stay cooler since it won’t be in direct sunlight.
- Finally, a room that faces the sun is just more inviting. It’s the perfect place to relax or entertain guests, and you’ll never have to worry about turning on the lights during the day.
Most people think that a room that faces the sun is the best possible option, but there are actually some disadvantages to having a room that is constantly bathed in sunlight.
Here are a few things to keep in mind if you are considering a room with a sunny exposure:
- Sunlight can fade your furniture and flooring.
If you have beautiful hardwood floors or expensive furniture, the sun can wreak havoc on them. The UV rays will fade the wood over time, and the sun can also cause fabric to fade and deteriorate.
- Sunlight can make a room hotter.
If you live in a hot climate, a room that faces the sun can become incredibly hot during the day. This can make it difficult to sleep or even just relax in the space.
Read: How to cool down a grow tent?
- Sunlight can cause glare.
If you are trying to watch TV or work on a computer in a room that is filled with sunlight, the glare can be incredibly distracting and make it difficult to focus on the task at hand.
- Sunlight can be a security risk.
If you have a room that faces the sun, anyone outside can see directly into the space. This can be a security risk, especially if you live in an urban area.
- Sunlight can be a health risk.
Too much sun exposure can actually be dangerous for your health. The UV rays can cause skin damage and increase your risk for skin cancer.
If you are considering a room with a sunny exposure, make sure to weigh the pros and cons carefully. There are some definite disadvantages to having a room that is constantly bathed in sunlight.
Read: How to block heat from west-facing windows?
How Sunlight Can Make A Room Hotter?
When the sun’s rays hit a room’s windows, they can cause the room to heat up. The sun’s heat is absorbed by the glass, and then by the objects and materials in the room. The air in the room can also absorb the heat, making the room feel stuffy and uncomfortable.
Tips On How To Cool Down A Room Facing The Sun
It can be a challenge to keep a room cool that faces the sun, but there are a few things you can do to help keep the temperature down.
#1. Window treatments- the most important one!
Window treatments are a great way to keep a room cool that faces the sun. By blocking out the sun’s rays, you can keep the room temperature down and make it more comfortable to spend time in. There are a variety of window treatments that can be used to achieve this, and the best one for you will depend on your specific needs and preferences.
Choose The Right Windows
Not all windows are created equal. When it comes to energy efficiency, you’ll want to choose windows that have a low U-factor. The U-factor is a measure of how much heat is transferred through a window. The lower the U-factor, the more energy efficient the window.
You’ll also want to choose windows that have a low solar heat gain coefficient (SHGC). The SHGC is a measure of how much heat is absorbed by the window. The lower the SHGC, the less heat is absorbed by the window.
Use Blinds Or Shades.
Blinds and shades are great for blocking out the sun’s rays. These can be closed during the day to keep the sun out, and then opened at night to allow the cool air in.
They come in a variety of materials, so you can choose one that best suits your needs. If you want something that’s easy to operate, choose blinds. If you’re looking for something a little more stylish, go for shades.
Use Curtains Or Drapes.
Curtains and drapes are also great for blocking out the sun. They come in a variety of materials and colors, so you can choose something that best suits your style. Curtains are usually easier to operate than drapes, but drapes can add a touch of elegance to a room.
Use Tinted Windows
Another option is to use tinted windows. Tinted windows will reduce the amount of heat that comes into the room, and can also help to reduce glare.
Use Reflective Window Film
If you want to be able to see out of your windows during the day, but still keep the sun out, you can use reflective window film. This film will reflect the sun’s rays away from the window, and can also be removed when you want to see out.
Use Shutters
Shutters are a great way to block out the sun and add a touch of style to a room. They come in a variety of materials and colors, so you can choose something that best suits your needs. Shutters can be opened and closed to adjust the amount of light and heat that comes into a room.
Install Solar Screens
Finally, if you want a more permanent solution, you can consider installing solar screens. Solar screens are designed to block out the sun’s rays, and can be installed on the outside of your windows. They are a great option if you live in an area with a lot of sun, and can be effective in reducing your energy bills.
Install Double Or Triple Pane Windows
If you have the ability, you can also install double or triple pane windows. These types of windows are much more efficient at keeping the heat and light out, and will help to keep your room cooler.
By following these tips, you can improve the window efficiency in your home and help to keep your room cooler during the hot summer months.
#2. Awnings
Awnings can help keep a room cool and save on energy costs and can also be a great way to add style and character to your home. They can be opened and closed to adjust the amount of light and heat that comes into a room. Awnings are available in a variety of materials and colors, so you can choose something that best suits your style.
There are a few things you need to know before you install an awning, however. Here are some tips for installing outdoor awnings to keep a room cool that faces the sun.
Choose the right awning.
There are a variety of awnings available on the market, so it’s important to choose one that will be effective at keeping your room cool. If you live in an area with a lot of sun and heat, you’ll want to choose an awning that is made of a light-colored fabric. This will help reflect the sun’s rays and keep the room cooler.
Install the awning properly.
Outdoor awnings need to be installed correctly in order to be effective. Make sure the awning is installed so that it slopes slightly away from the house. This will allow the sun’s rays to be reflected away from the house and will keep the room cooler.
Use the awning regularly.
Once you’ve installed the awning, be sure to use it regularly. This will help keep the room cool and will also help extend the life of the awning.
Keep the awning clean.
Over time, dirt and debris can build up on the awning. This can make the awning less effective at reflecting the sun’s rays. Be sure to clean the awning regularly to keep it in good condition.
Inspect the awning regularly.
Inspect the awning regularly for any signs of wear or tear. If you notice any damage, be sure to repair it immediately. This will help keep the awning in good condition and will ensure that it continues to keep your room cool.
Installing outdoor awnings is a great way to keep a room cool that faces the sun. Be sure to follow these tips to ensure that your awning is installed correctly and that it continues to keep your room cool.
Read: Ways to cool down your body in summer heat
#3. Grow Shade Outdoors
There are a few things to keep in mind when growing shade outdoors to keep a room cool.
First, consider the type of tree or plants you want to use to create shade. Some trees and plants will provide more shade than others. You’ll also want to consider the size of the tree or plant. A large tree will provide more shade than a smaller plant.
Once you’ve selected the tree or plant you want to use, you’ll need to determine where to plant it. You’ll want to make sure the tree or plant is close enough to the house to provide shade, but not so close that it blocks the sun completely.
Once you’ve determined the location, you’ll need to prepare the soil. If you’re using a tree, you’ll need to dig a hole that’s twice the width of the tree’s root ball. For a plant, you’ll need to dig a hole that’s the same depth as the pot the plant is in.
After you’ve planted the tree or plant, you’ll need to water it regularly. Depending on the type of tree or plant, you may also need to fertilize it.
It may take a few months for the tree or plant to grow enough to provide shade. But once it does, you’ll notice a difference in the temperature of the room.
#4. Keep Air Circulating
When the weather outside is hot, the last thing you want is for your home to be even hotter. But if your home faces the sun, that’s exactly what can happen. The sun’s rays can heat up your home quickly, making it stuffy and uncomfortable. But there are some things you can do to keep your home cool and comfortable, even when the sun is beating down.
One of the most important things you can do is to keep the air circulating. This can be done with fans or by opening windows. If you have a ceiling fan, make sure it is turned on and set to rotate counter-clockwise. This will help to push the hot air up and out of the room.
If you have windows, open them up to let the fresh air in and the hot air out. You may even want to consider investing in an air conditioner, especially if you live in an area where the sun shines brightly for most of the day.
Read: Ways to cool down a room fast without an ac or fan
Another way to keep your home cool is to keep the blinds or curtains closed. This will help to block out the sun’s rays and keep the heat from coming in. If you have windows that get direct sunlight, you may want to invest in some blackout curtains to really keep the heat out.
Finally, you can also try some DIY methods for cooling down your home. One popular method is to fill a bowl with ice and place it in front of a fan. The fan will blow the cool air from the ice across the room, helping to lower the temperature. You can also try hanging damp towels in front of windows or doors to help cool down the air that comes into the room.
Read: Homemade AC with ice and fan
#5. Cut Down on Humidity
When the weather is hot and muggy, the last thing you want is for your home to be sticky and uncomfortable. Unfortunately, when the humidity levels are high, that’s often exactly what happens. If you have a room in your home that faces the sun, it can be particularly difficult to keep cool.
Use An Air Conditioner
One of the best ways to reduce humidity is to use an air conditioner. Air conditioners work by removing moisture from the air, which can help to keep your room cool and comfortable.
Read: Reduce your AC Bills in summer
Use Dehumidifiers
If you don’t have an air conditioner, or if you’re looking for a more energy-efficient option, you can use a dehumidifier. Dehumidifiers work by pulling moisture out of the air and collecting it in a reservoir. You can then empty the reservoir when it’s full.
Ventilate Your Room
Another way to reduce humidity is to ventilate your room. You can do this by opening windows and doors to let the air circulate. If you have a ceiling fan, you can also use it to help circulate the air. Just be sure to keep the blades of the fan pointing downwards so that they push the air towards the floor.
Use A Humidifier
Finally, you can also reduce humidity by using a humidifier. Humidifiers work by adding moisture to the air. This can help to counteract the drying effect of the air conditioner or dehumidifier. Just be sure not to overdo it, as too much moisture in the air can actually make the problem worse.
#6. Postpone Heat-Generating Activities
As the summer sun beats down, the last thing you want to do is heat up your home with cooking or other activities that generate heat. But there are times when you can’t avoid it, or when postponing heat-generating activities is the best way to keep your cool.
If you have to cook, try to do it during the cooler hours of the day, such as early morning or evening. Or, better yet, do not use indoor grills, use your outdoor grill. Not only will this keep the heat out of your kitchen, but it’ll also make for a delicious summer meal.
If you have to do laundry, try to wait until the cooler hours of the day or evening, or better yet, air dry your clothes outside. The sun’s rays will help to dry them faster, and you won’t have to worry about generating heat inside your home.
If you have to run the dishwasher, do it during the cooler hours of the day or evening. Or, better yet, wash your dishes by hand in the sink. This will save you both energy and money, and you won’t have to generate heat inside your home.
In general, try to avoid using appliances or other devices that generate heat during the hottest hours of the day. If you can’t avoid it, try to do it during the cooler hours of the day or evening. And, whenever possible, open your windows to let in the cooler air.
#6. Add Outdoor Plants
Did you know that there are plants that can actually help keep a room cool?
Outdoor plants can act as a natural sunblock, shading the windows and walls of a room from the harsh rays of the sun. This can help to keep the room cooler, as well as reduce the amount of UV light that enters the room.
Additionally, plants release water vapor into the air, which can help to cool the room down. And, as they transpire, plants also help to humidify the air, making it more comfortable to breathe.
So, if you’re looking for a way to keep your sun-facing room cool this summer, consider adding some outdoor plants. They’ll not only help to keep the room cooler, but also improve the air quality.
#7. Consider Your Roof color
Your roof color can play a role in how cool your room stays during the summer. If your room faces the sun, you may want to consider a light-colored roof to reflect some of the heat. A white or light-colored roof can reflect up to 80% of the sun’s heat, helping to keep your room cooler.
If you have a dark-colored roof, it will absorb more heat from the sun. This can make your room warmer, especially if it faces the sun. If you want to keep your room cooler, you may want to consider a lighter color for your roof.
You may also want to consider the type of material your roof is made of. Some materials, such as metal, reflect more heat than others. If you live in an area that gets very hot during the summer, a metal roof may help keep your room cooler.
Of course, the best way to keep your room cool is to keep the sun out. If your room has windows that face the sun, you may want to consider adding window coverings to help block out the heat. Shutters, blinds, and curtains can all help to keep the sun’s heat out of your room.
If you’re not sure what color to choose for your roof, you may want to consult with a roofing contractor. They can help you choose a color that will reflect the most heat and help keep your room cool.
#8. Consider Your lighting
In addition to keeping the sun out of the room, you’ll also want to make sure that your lighting is set up in a way that doesn’t add to the heat. Avoid using overhead lights, as they will add to the heat in the room. Instead, use lamps with shades to help diffuse the light and keep the room cooler. You may also want to consider using LED bulbs, as they give off very little heat.
Finally, consider your furniture placement. If possible, arrange your furniture so that it’s not in direct sunlight. This will help to keep the room cooler overall.
#9. Use Fans
Fans can help circulate air and keep the room cooler, especially if they’re placed in front of windows that face the sun. Here are a few tips on how to use fans to keep your room cool:
- Place a fan in front of a window that faces the sun. This will help to circulate the air and keep the room cooler.
- If you have more than one fan, you can place them in different corners of the room to create a cross-breeze.
- If you have a ceiling fan, make sure it’s spinning in a counter-clockwise direction. This will create a downward airflow, which will help to cool the room.
- Experiment with different fan speeds to see what works best for you. Sometimes a lower speed can be more effective than a higher speed.
- If you have an oscillating fan, you can use it to direct the airflow around the room.
- If you have a window air conditioner, place the fan in front of it to help circulate the cool air.
- Place a bowl of ice water in front of the fan. As the air passes over the bowl, it will cool down and help to lower the temperature in the room.
- Make sure to clean your fan regularly. A build-up of dust can make it less effective.
#10. Add Insulation
One of the best ways to keep a room cool is by adding insulation. This will help to keep the heat from the sun out and keep the cool air in. There are a few different ways that you can add insulation to your room, and each has its own benefits.
Use Spray Foam
One way to add insulation is to use spray foam. This can be sprayed onto the walls and will quickly expand to fill any gaps. It is important to make sure that the foam is applied evenly so that it can provide the best possible insulation.
Use Fiberglass Insulation
Another way to add insulation is to use fiberglass insulation. This can be added to the walls in the form of batts or blankets. It is important to make sure that the fiberglass is properly installed so that it does not sag or fall out of the walls.
Use Blown-In Insulation
A third way to add insulation is to use blown-in insulation. This is a type of insulation that is blown into the walls using a special machine. It is important to make sure that the insulation is evenly distributed so that it can provide the best possible coverage.
No matter which type of insulation you choose, it is important to make sure that it is installed properly. If it is not installed properly, it will not be as effective and could even cause damage to your home. If you are not sure how to install insulation, it is best to hire a professional to do it for you.
By following these tips, you can keep your home cool and comfortable, even when the weather outside is hot.
Why Are Some Rooms In My House Hotter Than Others?
There are a variety of reasons why some rooms in your house may be hotter than others.
- One reason could be that the sun is shining directly into that particular room more than others.
- Another reason could be that a room is located on the top floor of your house and is therefore closer to the heat source (i.e. the roof).
- Additionally, some rooms may have more windows than others, letting in more heat.
- If you find that your entire house is hotter than usual, there could be a few different reasons. One possibility is that your air conditioner is not working properly. If this is the case, you will want to call a professional to come and take a look at it.
- Another possibility is that your house is not well insulated. This means that heat is able to come in through the walls and ceilings, making the entire house feel warmer. If this is the case, you may want to consider adding more insulation to your home.
No matter the reason why your house is hotter than usual, there are ways to help cool it down. By taking some simple steps, you can make your home more comfortable for everyone.
Amazon and the Amazon logo are trademarks of Amazon.com, Inc, or its affiliates.
Leave a Reply