How To Keep Cool and Comfortable with Solar Films

With climate change around the corner, temperatures are not going down. Research has shown that Singapore is one of the countries with rapidly rising temperatures; maximum daily temperatures can reach 35 to 37 degrees Celsius by 2100 according to data from the MSS Centre for Climate Research Singapore.

Blasting our air-conditioning at full force may not be very helpful, as some air-conditioner models may contain carbon-emitting elements that contribute to climate change. It may also lead to an increase in electricity bills if the air-conditioner used is not energy-saving.

As things heat up, it’s time to look for carbon-free and affordable ways to keep cool. Opening our windows can help in natural ventilation, cooling, and lighting but we can go one step further in keeping the heat out - putting solar films on our windows.

Window Films VS Solar Films

Window films are like stick-on curtains; they are stuck on dry, clean window panes (usually the inner surfaces) to maintain privacy and regulate sunlight entry. They are also available in different colours and patterns to give an indoor space an interesting look.

Why window films are effective - and thus essential - is how they reflect excessive sunlight: When sunlight hits a window with an applied film, part of its energy is reflected back outside. The window glass absorbs some of the sun’s energy, transmitting it through the window film into the room. That portion of the sun’s energy is then reflected back and forth throughout the room. As a result, the room remains well-lit.

However, excess warmth and UV radiation can be problematic; the greater the glass area of a home or building, the more potential for excessive radiant heat gain.

As temperatures rise around the world, solar films have emerged to meet demands. Solar films are window films that repel a lot more sunlight and UV rays compared to traditional ones. They regulate or control the amount of solar energy permeating your windows. As a result, solar films:

• Block 99% of harmful UVA and UVB rays to protect your furniture from fading and ageing, and prevent skin damage
• Rejects 75% - 80% of heat for better comfort and energy efficiency, reducing utility costs and keeping your home cool
• Increase your cool comfort by eliminating ‘hot spots’
• Absorb light rays, massively reducing the amount of reflection and glare
• Reduce glare and increases privacy, just like traditional window films
• Protect you from shatter-induced hazards if your window breaks

Whether you are working from home or returning to the office, sticking solar films on your windows will keep excessive heat away from your interiors. You no longer need to leave your air-conditioning on all the time as solar films can cool your rooms just as well without breaking the bank.

Rikecool's solar films in action. Image © Rikecool

Rikecool’s Solar Films

Rikecool retails high-quality films from Japan and the United States. Their variety of films ranges from protection films for automobiles to high-performance window films for residential and commercial uses.

Rikecool has specifically produced a unique solar film that allows 90% of light transmission with heat reduction for Singapore’s automotive market, homes, and offices By blocking excess heat and sunlight, Rikecool’s solar films will protect your interior furnishings from sun-induced deterioration and keep your home cool. Having their solar films applied to your windows will reduce your need for artificial cooling appliances that could contribute to climate change.

Rikecool’s solar film colour range comprises Grey, Charcoal, Bronze, Silver, and Premium (which is highly recommended). Each colour has its own measurements on Visible Light Transmittance, Glare Reduction, Infrared Heat Rejection, and UV Rejection. No matter which colour you pick, they have the following traits which will be explained during your purchase.

• Total Solar Transmittance
• Total Solar Reflectance
• Total Solar Absorption
• Visible Light Transmittance
• Visible Light Reflectance
• Ultraviolet Transmittance
• Total Solar Energy Rejected

Rikecool’s other offerings include vehicle protection films, bicycle protection kits, antimicrobial films, decorative films, privacy films, perforated films, XPEL paint protection films, and XPEL interior and headlamp protection films.

During your purchase journey, the Rikecool team will professionally assess your needs, walk you through the films you need, and even provide you with an after-installation programme that is highly regarded in the market.

An Exclusive Discount From Rikecool

Rikecool’s website is equipped with a quote calculator to help you calculate your costs depending on how much window film you need. Just enter your dimensions to get your square footage, select the window film type, add removal film services and installation charges (if needed), and you will instantly receive your quote.

After filling up your contact information, the Rikecool team will reach out to you to discuss payment options.

Readers, here’s a nice promotion for you: Get your quotes, and show any Rikecool staff a snapshot of your calculation to get 10% off your purchase.

Rikecool's calculator takes your measurements and gives you an estimated quote

To shop Rikecool’s window films, visit their website here.