Was in the tint biz for 17 years..
Yes with the right film it will provide you with a signifigant reduction on heat gain.
The 1st thing you need to consider is what type of windows you have..if they are double pane ..you have some limitations on the film options..you CANNOT put a dark automotive type film on these windows..it can cause the seal between the panes or glass the crack. It's not an effective heat reducer anyway. You have more film choices with single pane glass, but the most effective films can go on either type of window.
For max heat reduction you need a reflective film..yes any reflective film WILL reflect back on you at night with the lights on in the room..no avoiding that issue.
The best performing heat reducing film will be a 20% VLT silver reflective film...this film reduces radiated heat gain by as much as 75% in the summer and its safe for double pane glass. There are other film options, but for max heat gain effectiveness you cant beat silver in most cases.
Yes, you can buy some DIY film at most home centers, but chances are it will be a lesser quality and performance level...if you want to get max performance you can call around to local tint shops that do commercial and residential installations and ask if you can buy the film by the foot, some will sell it that way, some wont.
Best bet if its just a cpl windows you want done is to have them come out and give you an estimate..those are always free and that way you are insured to get a good install and the right film...you said its a rental so you dont want to be liable for glass breakage if you did it yourself. That could easily cost you hundreds to replace a window.
Without knowing the sizes and number of windows its hard to tell you what it will cost you...but generally it runs between $4 - 7 per square foot installed..if its a real small job they may have a minimum charge..but still should be reasonable.
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