I'm dealing with a serious heat issue in my townhouse's west-facing room on the second floor. The room has large windows and is situated over the garage, which makes it heat up rapidly throughout the day. Even with the AC set to 75°F during the day, it gets way too hot, often reaching 90°F or higher, even going past 100°F at times! I have the thermostat in the master bedroom on the opposite side, so it doesn't help much. I've tried closing the blinds, using blackout curtains, and running fans constantly, but nothing seems to work. Since my HOA doesn't allow window AC units and I can't drill into the walls for better ventilation, I'm at a loss. Does anyone have suggestions for keeping this room cooler?
3 Answers
Consider using a high-quality thermal or UV window tint film. It can significantly reduce the amount of solar heat coming through the windows. Also, have you thought about a mini-split AC system for this room? Though it might not be allowed, it's worth exploring if you can work out something with your HOA.
Using cellular shades works wonders. When we had large windows in our previous house, they were a game-changer against the heat. Additionally, if you can get hold of an infrared camera, it might help identify heat leaks or poorly insulated areas, like your garage or attic. You could also talk to an HVAC professional about your system, especially considering your thermostat placement might not be ideal.
I recommend investing in curtains with a shiny silver lining that can reflect the heat. I installed a similar type in my south-facing room, and it made a huge difference in cooling. You might also look into blackout cellular blinds; they not only block the light but can help insulate against heat as well. Just be aware they’ll darken the room and limit your view.