Skip to main content
Back to Intelligence

Does Window Tint Actually Keep Your Car Cool in Calgary? The Science of Heat Rejection

By Mostafa
May 21, 2024
Share:
Heat rejection demonstration of ceramic window tint

Calgary summers are intense. Parking at Chinook Centre for an hour can turn your car into an oven with dashboard temperatures hitting 70°C. Can a thin layer of plastic really make a difference? Yes, but only if it's the right plastic.

Understanding Solar Energy in Calgary

The heat you feel comes from the sun in three forms:

  • Visible Light (44%)The glare you see. Darker tint blocks this.
  • Infrared (53%)The burning heat you feel. Only Ceramic tint blocks this.
  • UV Rays (3%)Causes cancer and fading. All quality tints block this.

Why "Limo Tint" Might Still Be Hot in Summer

Many people think "Darker = Cooler". This is a myth. A 5% (Limo) Dyed tint might block visible light, but it lets nearly all the Infrared (IR) heat through. You end up sitting in the dark, sweating.

Conversely, a 70% (Clear) XPEL Prime XR Plus ceramic tint lets in light but blocks 96% of the IR heat. You stay cool while keeping your view.

TSER (Total Solar Energy Rejected) Comparison

Factory Privacy Glass (No Tint)18%
5% Generic Dyed Tint35%
35% XPEL Ceramic60%
5% XPEL Ceramic Plus71%

The "Air Conditioning" Effect for Calgary Drivers

High-performance tint doesn't just keep the car cool while parked; it helps your AC work faster. By reducing the thermal load entering the cabin, your AC system doesn't have to work as hard to maintain a comfortable temperature. This actually improves fuel efficiency (or EV range) slightly.

Winter Tint Benefits in Calgary

Insulation Properties

Glass is a terrible insulator. Heat escapes rapidly in winter. The multi-layer construction of ceramic tint adds a slight insulation barrier, helping retain cabin warmth when it's -30°C outside.

Frequently Asked Questions

Award Winning Service

Experience The Best.

Don't let another commute compromise your vehicle. Get a quote from Calgary's Consumer Choice Award winner today.

Explore Our Services

Calgary's Premier PPF Studio Location

Come See The
Difference.

Our climate-controlled facility is purpose-built for precision application. Stop by, meet the team, and inspect our work in person.

Visit The Lab

#2 - 239 61 Ave SE
Calgary, AB T2H 0R4

Serving Calgary & Area:

Airdrie | Cochrane | Okotoks | Chestermere | High River

Get Directions

Direct Line

Speak directly to an installer, not a receptionist.

(403) 830-3311

Hours

Mon - Fri9am - 5pm
SaturdayBy Appt.
"I was hesitant about who to trust with my new Corvette. The team at PPF Pros explained everything, showed me their shop, and the result was absolutely flawless."
J
James T.
C8 Corvette Owner
5.0
Google Rating
Open Now accepting Drop-offs