Spray foam insulation the indoor air temperature is lower than outdoor, heat will move into buildings from outside. This is called heat gain, and it can put an enormous burden on air conditioning systems that must work harder to keep indoors comfortable.

One of the biggest sources of heat gain is sunlight coming through windows. The simple act of closing drapes or curtains can reduce heat gain by up to a third. Drapes and curtains that are made from medium-colored fabric with white plastic backings are especially effective at reducing sun-based heat gains.

Another source of heat gain is the electric lights used in offices, homes and manufacturing facilities. Most incandescent and halogen lights produce a substantial amount of heat, even when they are not turned on. Switching to energy-efficient LED lighting can drastically reduce the amount of heat produced by lighting. In addition, adding controls to eliminate unnecessary illumination will further reduce electricity use and associated heat generation.

Good insulation in walls, roofs and attics can also significantly reduce thermal energy movement, which is a significant source of both summer and winter heat gain. Insufficient insulation is a common cause of over-working residential and commercial air conditioning. Installing good insulation can save money by lowering energy bills and improving indoor comfort. Fiberglass insulation is available in a variety of thicknesses and sizes on 2050 Materials. Choose the best option for your building type and climate zone.