Wednesday, September 14, 2016

Controlling the Temperature in Sunrooms Without Heating or AC Systems

Temperature control can be a bit tricky when it comes to sunrooms because of the amount of glass used to build the structure. Many choose to install a new air conditioning and heating system so that the sunroom is comfortably warm in winter and refreshingly cool in summer. Instead of installing a new heating and AC system, there are other ways to ensure that your sunroom always has the ideal temperature in both colder and warmer months.

Use Low U-Value Windows

To minimize heat gain and heat loss in your sunroom, your remodeler can use low U-value windows. U-value measures how a window system conducts heat. A window system's U-value is determined by its assembly, including the effect of the glass, seals, frame, and any spacers. Using a system with a lower U-value means you have windows with greater resistance to heat flow and better insulation.

Use Window Treatments or Privacy Shades

Placing window treatments and shades on windows and on floor-to-ceiling walls made of glass serve several purposes, such as preventing too much heat and light from coming in, enhancing the decor, and providing much-needed privacy. Window treatments are the ideal elements to control how bright or dark your sunroom is during daytime. Depending on your preferences and your sunroom design, you can choose among options like sheer shades, solar or sunscreen shades, vertical and cellular blinds, and curtains.

Install Electrical Heating or Use Space Heaters

When you don't want to add another furnace in the sunroom but still want it to be perfectly toasty during winter, you can use space heaters or install electrical heating. A space heater is a portable device that heats up its immediate surroundings. You can just store the heater away during summer. Electric radiant heating, on the other hand, can be installed in the floor, high on the wall, or in the ceiling as radiant panels. Electric mats that are installed below the surface or electric cables in the floor can keep a room warm for hours.

Use Ceiling Fans for Proper Ventilation

During summer, you can use ceiling fans and box fans to make sure that the sunroom has proper ventilation. You can also open doors to the adjoining room that has air conditioning to create cross-ventilation. Using a portable air conditioning unit is also a good way to avoid having a stuffy sunroom.

Source:
How to Heat and Cool a Sunroom, modernmom.com

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