Tinting Windows for Green Air Conditioning

[Evelynisorganic]

I have a bank of front windows that catch the summer sun and it gets so hot in our house from the passive heating. I have to use the air conditioner even though I don't want to. I wonder if I were to have the windows tinted a dark shade, if it would help with the heat? It's ridiculous how hot it gets in our house from that sun.

[Annie Jane]

I don't see why that wouldn't be a good first step. It would help to decrease the heat somewhat. I would say that planting trees so their shade would eventually fall on the windows would help too. That would bring more oxygen to the neighborhood too.

[Green Scene]

I have a bit of a similar situation for part of the day. I purchased some inexpensive bamboo shades that filter the light. It's amazing how much they help. Heavy linen drapes will actually help cool the area too. Both of these are earth-friendly materials too.

[Evelynisorganic]

Good ideas! I think I'll try to do both. The shades are a good idea but I want to be able to see out of my windows right now. I do have blinds that I pull down in the afternoon but it doesn't seem to make that much of a difference.