This affordable window film promises to block heat from entering your home – but does it work?

As someone constantly on the hunt for effective and energy-efficient ways to keep a home cool in summer – whether for work or in my own home – heat reflective window films have constantly stood out as a great, low-cost way to cool down a room.

While you may have only ever considered installing window films as a way to add a decorative touch or privacy to your home, they are also one of the best home remedies to stay cool without spending. Like energy-efficient windows, this solution can contribute to energy savings by reducing the need for air conditioning this summer.

Below, we share our top window film buy and explain how it can work to block heat and better insulate your home. 

Best window film to block heat

How does it work?

Reflective window films like this one from Amazon work to block heat by reflecting sunlight. The film's reflective surface reduces the amount of heat from the sun that enters your living space through windows, keeping it cooler. 

The Coavas One Way Window Film from Amazon promises to efficiently block 90% of UV rays and 82% of IR rays, minimizing heat transmission. Other opaque films absorb the sun's heat rays, blocking light and glare.

These films can reduce the amount of heat that passes through windows by up to 80%, potentially keeping your space up to 20° cooler. Window film should also help to reduce hot and cold spots by adding insulation to windows, helping maintain a cooler home in summer while also providing insulation in winter, helping to reduce your energy bills.

If you're looking for other affordable cooling products to beat the heat instead of AC, you can check out our top picks for ingenious tricks that can help you cut energy bills during the heat of the summer.