Plumbing, heating, air conditioning, electricity – I find it truly amazing how all of these systems come together to create a first-world living space.
Many people who enjoy such luxuries never give a second thought to their home’s inner-workings when a light turns on, a toilet flushes or they hear the central air kick on. In particular, radiant barriers are a feature my customers may never see, but it’s certainly one they will feel.
They feel them by the comfort that comes from cozy heat on a winter night. They feel it by the way a gust of cool air greets them on a summer afternoon. Their pocketbooks feel it, too.
What are Radiant Barriers, Anyway?
I was introduced to radiant barriers when I first got into the HVAC industry. Since starting my own business, I have educated countless home and business owners on the subject. In doing so, I give them a lesson in thermodynamics.
When heat radiates from the sun and hits your roof, the warmth is transferred via conduction to the attic floor (imagine a pot of boiling water that causes the handle to become hot). From there, the heat makes its way to the bottom of the home’s ceiling and causes rising temperatures inside.
Radiant barriers are used as a way to alter this process. They are made of highly reflective material – such as aluminum foil – and can be stapled to the bottom of the roof rafters or installed above the insulation. On a hot day, the heat is captured and reflected back towards the roof rather than making its way toward the inside of the home.
Here are 3 Fast Facts About the Benefits of Radiant Barriers
1. Radiant Barriers are Beneficial for Any Climate
Many customers ask if radiant barriers will benefit them if they live in a cold climate or experience long winters. Because heat always moves from hot areas to cold areas, heat will try to escape your home when it is cooler outside. Just as reflective barriers direct heat back towards the roof on a hot day, they also prevent heat loss when the temperature inside the home is warmer.
2. Radiant Barriers are Greener
The U.S. Department of Energy reports roughly 117 million metric tons of carbon dioxide are released by HVAC systems each year. Radiant Barriers reduce the need for climate control intervention, which helps shrink carbon footprints.
3. Radiant Barriers are an Economical Choice
My customers are always happy to hear that saving money is a side-effect of radiant barriers. Because less heating and air conditioning are needed to bring your home to a comfortable temperature, energy bills are lower. Additionally, less stress is put on the HVAC system, prolonging its life. The investment of incorporating reflective barriers to a new or existing home will pay for itself and continue to benefit your budget over time.
Are the benefits of radiant barriers the right decision for your property? We can help you decide. Contact Island Comfort Air Conditioning to schedule a consultation.
