Save Energy and Money with Energy Efficient Window Coverings
When used properly, energy efficient window coverings can save up to 14% of the total energy required to maintain a comfortable indoor environment. With an energy efficient window treatment, you can expect a significant decrease in energy bills as these coverings will pay for themselves in less than a year.
This guide highlights the often-overlooked benefits of energy-efficient window coverings and demonstrates how making simple changes can help you save money and reduce your environmental impact.
Why Choose Energy Efficient Window Coverings?
Improved Comfort
Energy-efficient window coverings also help improve the comfort of your home. By regulating the temperature, you can avoid hot or cold spots in your living space and enjoy a more comfortable and consistent temperature throughout your home.
Protect Your Furniture:
Did you know that UV rays from the sun can damage your furniture and flooring? Energy efficient window treatments can help block out harmful UV rays, protecting your furniture from fading and damage.
Lower Energy Bills
One of the main reasons to invest in energy-efficient window coverings is to achieve significant energy savings. These coverings help regulate the temperature in your home, keeping it cooler in the summer and warmer in the winter. This means you can rely less on your heating and cooling systems, resulting in lower energy bills.
Reduce Carbon Footprint
By using less energy to heat or cool your home, you are also reducing your carbon footprint. This is because traditional heating and cooling systems rely on fossil fuels, which contribute to greenhouse gas emissions. By using an energy efficient window treatment, you are doing your part in reducing the impact on the environment.
Types of Energy Efficient Window Coverings
There are several types of energy efficient window coverings to choose from, each with its own unique benefits. Let’s take a look at some of the most popular options.
Louvered Blinds
Louvered blinds, often crafted from materials like wood, vinyl, or aluminum, offer superb control over light and privacy. By adjusting the angle of the slats, you can regulate the amount of sunlight that enter your room. This feature allows you to reduce heat gain in the summer while still enjoying natural light.
Insulated Cellular Shades
Cellular shades, also known as honeycomb shades, have become increasingly popular in the realm of energy-efficient window treatments. Crafted from layers of fabric that form honeycomb-shaped cells, these shades excel in trapping air, creating a thermal barrier between the window and the room’s interior. These shades are an excellent choice when it comes to window insulation, offering both style and function.
Besides their insulating properties, cellular shades offer a sleek, modern aesthetic, and come in a variety of colors and light-filtering options, providing homeowners with both style and function.
With the added benefit of noise reduction and the ability to filter out harmful UV rays, cellular shades stand out as a smart, eco-friendly choice for those looking to enhance their home’s energy efficiency and comfort.
Recommended Reading: 5 Benefits of Customized Blinds, Shades & Drapes for South Florida Homes
Thermal Curtains
Thermal curtains are a budget-friendly option for energy efficiency. They are made with a thick, insulating fabric that helps regulate the temperature in your home. They are also available in a variety of colors and patterns, making them a stylish addition to any room.
Window Films
Window films are transparent, adhesive layers that you apply directly to your windows to help block out UV rays and regulate temperature. They are a great option for those who want to maintain their current window coverings but still want to improve energy efficiency.
You can use them on any side of the window, but please apply them on the inside. Putting films outside can make them less effective and they might not last long due to rain and other factors. They are available in different levels of opacity, allowing you to choose the amount of natural light you want to let in.
Shutters
Shutters are a stylish and durable choice for energy-efficient window coverings. Exterior shutters can be crafted from various materials, including wood, vinyl, or composite. They provide excellent window insulation and light control, helping you regulate the temperature within your home.
Recommended Reading: 16 Types of Window Treatments Great for Every Florida Home
How to Choose the Right Energy Efficient Window Covering
When choosing the right energy efficient window covering for your home, there are a few factors to consider.
Climate
The climate you live in will play a significant role in determining the type of energy-efficient window covering you need. For example, if you live in a colder climate, you may want to invest in insulated blinds or shades to keep the heat in. If you live in a warmer climate, you may want to invest in window films to block out the sun’s heat.
Window Size and Orientation
The size and orientation of your windows will also impact your choice of energy efficient window coverings.
For larger windows, you may want to consider insulated blinds or shades, as they provide better coverage. For smaller windows, thermal curtains or window films may be a more cost-effective option.
Different windows may receive varying levels of sunlight and heat.
South-facing windows receive direct sunlight throughout the day, so select coverings that block or reflect this heat.
North-facing windows receive less direct sunlight, requiring less emphasis on heat reflection.
East and west-facing windows get morning or afternoon sun; look for coverings that manage this sun exposure effectively.
Style and Aesthetics
Even though you want an energy-efficient window treatment, you still want it to look good in your home. Consider the style and aesthetics of your living space when choosing the right covering. Insulated blinds and shades come in a variety of styles and colors, making it easy to find one that matches your decor.
Budget
Finally, consider your budget. While some options may be more expensive upfront, they can save you money in the long run on energy bills. Consider the long-term benefits when making your decision.
How to Maximize Energy Efficiency with Window Coverings
To get the most out of your energy efficient window coverings, here are a few tips to keep in mind.
Window Operations
According to a statistic from the Department of Energy, 75% of window coverings in homes stay in one fixed position throughout the entire day, which isn't advisable for energy efficiency.
To achieve maximum energy savings, during colder months, close your window coverings at night to keep the heat in, reducing the workload on your heating system."
During the warmer months, open your window coverings during the day to let natural light in and reduce the need for artificial lighting. This will also help regulate the temperature in your home.
Use Window Films on South-Facing Windows
If you have windows that face south, consider using window films as part of your window insulation strategy. These films effectively block out the sun’s heat. They keep your home cooler and reduce the workload on your cooling system.
Keep Coverings Clean
Regularly cleaning your window coverings will help them maintain their energy efficiency. Dust and debris can build up on blinds and shades, reducing their effectiveness. Be sure to clean them regularly to keep them in top condition.
Conclusion
In the midst of our daily routines, we often overlook the smaller details that quietly contribute to higher energy bills. Surprisingly, windows play a significant role in this. The often-overlooked act of paying attention to your windows can result in substantial energy and cost savings.
At Drapes & Shades custom window designs, we offer energy-efficient window treatments to fit your specific needs. We can assist you in making the best choice for enhancing your indoor window experience, functionality, and style.
Let’s Make It Happen!
So whether you’re making a few updates or a total makeover, Drapes and Shades Custom Window Designs will help you choose the right window treatments for your space, style, and budget.
Call us today at (954) 289-3311 for a free consultation.
