There is nothing like a sunroom in the spring, to watch the perennials come up through the snow in Oregon. A sunroom is perfect for wicker furniture and enjoying summer evenings in the Midwest watching the kids chase fireflies. A fall in the northeast watching the trees change color from the sunroom is unbeatable. I love to watch the snowfall in Colorado from the sunroom. See how it builds upon the fence and the birdbath. There is one complaint I have heard from owners. How can I cool it off and how can I warm it up with all that glass?
We have found 8 Solutions to Manage the Sunroom Temperature
Extend Your HVAC System
The costliest option is the one that adds the most value to your home. Extending your HVAC system to your sunroom will keep it at an ideal temperature throughout the year, It is an ideal option if you don’t plan to close the room off once summer is over.
Opt for Zoned Air Conditioning
A ductless mini-split system that heats and cools is a great solution for room additions because it’s flexible and cost-effective, works in areas of the home that don’t have any existing ductwork. Because you can turn the air on and off separately from your home’s HVAC system, you have better control over your utility bills.
I remember before the ductless mini-split we would haul out the air conditioner every summer when temperatures soared, then when fall came, we hauled it downstairs to the basement storing it for next year. It was very heavy, and invariably I would get soaked.
Tint the Windows
Tinted windows help keep a room cool by restricting the amount of light that comes in. If you’ve already installed tint-less windows, however, you can purchase tinted film or shades to block excessive amounts of light.
One caution on window film, if the glass is a double glass, the film may nullify your warranty because it causes extreme heat inside the glass panels and they are pressure sealed with gas inside. Window film may cause clouding inside the panel. I would consult with experts in the field since there are many technical issues that might not be obvious at first glance. On the other hand, many have never had any problems, Best to ask questions.
Install Blinds
Blinds in your sunroom may seem counterintuitive to its purpose, but they’re actually a practical summertime solution. Whether you opt for traditional blinds or shades, or motorized roof and wall blinds, reducing the amount of direct sunlight is key. Doing so deflects the heat back outside. Blinds also come with the added benefit of enhancing the sunroom’s privacy
Run the Ceiling Fan
Keeping the air circulated in your sunroom is essential. If you have a ceiling fan installed, using it in combination with the blinds will make the room noticeably cooler. Sunrooms that lack this essential addition can equally benefit from portable fans. In fact, having fans at the bottom of the sunroom helps the air blow upward and out of the vents, which creates a natural circulation.
Use a Window Unit like the air conditioner we moved every year from the basement.
Heat in the Floors. Some of our friends swear by their heated floors when it is cold. Terraces open to the outside benefit from the portable, propane gas heaters you light
Finally, Get the Air Moving. Allowing airflow through your sunroom keeps it cool in summer. You must have at least two opposite opening windows or doors where a breeze can pass through. A ceiling fan can also help to get the air moving.
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