Cranking up the air conditioner during the hottest days of summer is a double-edged sword. On the one hand, the best way to beat the heat is by lowering the thermostat and transforming your home into an ice palace straight out of the movie Frozen. But on the other hand, doing so usually comes at…
That being said, there are ways to keep your home cool that don’t involve the AC unit, leading to a more affordable energy bill in the long run. Here’s one helpful hack anyone can use, as it requires only a few simple tools and a little DIY knowledge.
What You’ll Need
Before we go further, let’s gather a few things you probably already have lying around the house. You’ll need a spray bottle, a squeegee, and a razor blade.
The key to this hack is heat-controlling window film, which can be easily adhered to most windows. This product from Gila is an excellent choice and comes in multiple sizes. It claims to block out up to 72% of total solar energy, leaving your home feeling cooler. You’ll also need an application solution, which we’ll delve into below.
If you’re looking for a short-term solution to blocking out the sun and don’t mind an obstructed view, you can also use a roll of reflective insulation, attaching it to your window with heavy-duty double-sided tape.
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Time To Apply
Once you’ve gathered your supplies, the application process is straightforward. You should always read the instructions that came with your specific heat-controlling window film, but here are a few general guidelines. (Note: If you have double-pane windows, check the manufacturer’s warranty beforehand. Interior film is not always recommended, as heat can get trapped between the panes and cause the seal to fail.)
First, measure the windows to determine the film size needed, and cut each piece accordingly.
Next, make the application solution. Gila sells its own version, but you can achieve the same results using 1 quart of purified water and a few drops of baby shampoo. Stir to combine, then pour it into your empty spray bottle. The application solution helps clean the glass and prep it for installation.
Use the application solution to clean the interior side of the window, drying it with a microfiber cloth to pick up any lint. With the film cut to size, carefully remove the sticky backing. Then, take the application solution and spray both the adhesive side of the film and the window once again, ensuring they are thoroughly soaked. This will make it easier to reposition the film and remove air bubbles or wrinkles.
Moving from top to bottom and from the center outward, carefully press the wet, sticky side of the film against the window. Once the window film has been installed, lightly spray the outside with the application solution again — this will give the squeegee more slip. Take the squeegee and firmly glide it along the film to remove any air bubbles — we recommend working from the center outward for the best results. Finally, take a razor blade and carefully remove any excess film until it fits the window’s precise shape. When you’re done, use a clean microfiber cloth to dry the window and frame.
