I’m thinking it has something to do with the high ceilings and Western exposure of my house with the sun blaring in through all the windows and sliding glass doors. I think something like acrylic windows might really help. They claim to keep out summer heat! To air condition, or not to air condition? That is the question. The insulating acrylic windows will reduce the summer heat no matter what your condition. The air tight acrylic window decreases conductive heat from entering your home. Also available in a tinted acrylic, both conductive and solar heat will be substantially reduced.

Another idea is steel roofing. Metal reflects 70% of the sun’s energy. This minimizes heat retention and as a result less heat is transferred into the buildings structure. Research shows that metal experience 34% less heat gain than asphalt shingles. Results indicate that metal roofing offers a similar effect of R-11 insulation on top of the roof during sunny day conditions.

Where do you find these things? At the Energy Doctor, of course. They are the North American leader in energy efficient products for your home.

One of their specialties are solariums, which can be used as an additional room for kids to play, an indoor garden or a private swimming pool enclosure. Although solariums are great for the winter (and all year round actually), they are wonderful for keeping the hot sun out during the summer months.

Another wonderful addition The Energy Doctor provides are patio enclosures. They help keep the house cool in the summer.

For now, we are thinking of getting some shades for the highest window panels in our house. However, if our electric bill keeps going up, I may just need to make a call to the “doctor”.

*This post is sponsored by The Energy Doctor. Check ‘em out for all of your energy efficient needs.