A conservatory or sunroom is a wonderful addition to any home, but keeping it warm in winter and cool in summer can be a real challenge. In this article, we discuss some smart ideas for managing the temperature in your existing conservatory or planning and building the most energy efficient sunroom possible. Read on to learn more.<\/p>\n
If you are able to build a new conservatory, be sure to make energy efficient choices right from the start. Begin by picking the right location. It should be sunny in winter and shady in summer. A southern exposure with deciduous trees nearby is perfect.<\/p>\n
When building from the ground-up, begin with a design that is easy for you to insulate. A conservatory that has a ceiling and roof is easier to insulate than one that is made entirely of glass. Insulate the space between the ceiling and roof, as well as insulating below the floor.<\/p>\n
Extending the ductwork of your existing central heat and air system is permitted in some areas, but be sure to check with your local officials to determine this before undertaking this project. When building a conservatory, it’s a good idea to install a separate heating and cooling system.<\/p>\n
Trench heating is a good space-saving option if you are building or remodeling a conservatory. To use this type of heating, you must dig a trench below the floor and install a radiator unit. Cover it with a grill which allows the heat to rise into the room.<\/p>\n
Under-floor heating can also be installed under a laminate or tile floor in a new conservatory or one that it being remodeled. This option involves a network of heating elements interwoven beneath the entire floor of the room.<\/p>\n
This form of heating saves space and provides consistent heat. On the downside, it takes a long time to warm up and cool down so if your climate is unpredictable, you may find yourself frequently too hot or too cold.<\/p>\n
In addition to insulating below the flooring, add a thick carpet pad and carpeting on top to prevent losing heat through the flooring.<\/p>\n
The heating requirements of a conservatory can be quite a challenge because these structures often have high glass ceilings and walls. If the glass is old-fashioned, single-paned, you lose an awful lot of heat.<\/p>\n
This is why it is so important to build a new conservatory using properly insulated, double-paned glass. If you have single paned windows in your current conservatory, replacing them with updated, energy-efficient windows is an investment that can save you a lot of money in the long run.<\/p>\n
If you are not able to replace your existing conservatory glass, you may be able to add an energy efficient coating, film or tint. There are lots of choices in this sort of product ranging from purely decorative to highly energy efficient sorts that not only help keep the temperature of your conservatory at an even keel but also strengthen the glass and protect it against breakage.<\/p>\n
Another problem with the thin glass used in older conservatories is that the frames surrounding it may be leaky. If you have old, framed windows in your sunroom use weather-stripping and clear caulking to seal up any leaks and stop cold air getting in and warm air getting out.<\/p>\n
Older sunrooms can be made more energy efficient with inexpensive window coverings. You can purchase a weatherization kit or simply buy a roll of plastic sheeting designed for the purpose of insulating windows. A layer indoors and a layer outdoors act as good insulation to block cold and drafts and keep heat in.<\/p>\n
You can go with clear plastic sheeting for better visibility, but in truth, white plastic sheeting distributes heat more evenly and is better if you wish to keep plants in your conservatory through the winter. It also provides some privacy.<\/p>\n
If you are concerned about using and disposing of plastic sheeting, make the most use of it you can. When you take it down in the springtime, do so carefully. Fold it up and store it and use it as row covering or weed blocker sheeting in your garden. Use it to cover items you want to keep dry outdoors during the rainy season or dust-free in your garage year-round.<\/p>\n
Insulated drapes are also a good idea in a conservatory. Close them at night during the winter to retain heat. Close them in the daytime during the summer months to keep heat out.<\/p>\n
Retractable awnings also help control temperature in the conservatory. Pull them open when the sun is too hot and roll them back up when you want to take advantage of the warmth of the sun.<\/p>\n
Simple heating solutions can help you make good use of your conservatory year round. Heating options can range from inexpensive portable units to elaborate, built in solutions. Here are some of the best for you to choose from:<\/p>\n
Although electric heaters and radiators have a bad reputation for consuming a great deal of energy, the fact is newer, more energy efficient models can be very cost effective if used carefully and mindfully.<\/p>\n