Energy Efficient Window Treatments

Top 5 Most Energy Saving Window Treatments

Did you know that the right window coverings can effectively reduce energy loss through windows, lower your HVAC bills, and improve the comfort of your home? If you live in an area that gets unbearably hot during the summer, heat blocking window treatments are a cheap way to help lower the temperature in your home. It’s one of the simplest and most cost-effective ways to improve your home’s energy efficiency. Even the U.S. Department of Energy has weighed in on energy efficient window treatment types.

The most energy efficient interior window treatments, according to the U.S. Department of Energy, include:

Insulated cellular shades

Also called honeycomb shades, this is where energy efficiency meets style. These shades were introduced in the late 1970s in order to fill a need for window treatments that would reduce consumers’ energy use, following the energy crisis. Cellular shades can boost thermal comfort by raises the temperature by as much as 5°F. They also act as insulation and protect your home from the cold with their unique, energy-saving design. Each honeycomb insulates pockets of air, which can provide insulation. They are one of the best choices for window coverings, as they also offer optimal light and temperature control. The energy savings, though, are really a huge benefit both to your comfort, not to mention your wallet.

Roller shades

These are among our most popular window treatment options at Bloomin’ Blinds. They are a solid insulating option and come in light filtering and blackout options for light management. The blackout option, which is also called solar shades, features opaque material that still allows for an outside view.

Roman shades

These beautiful, traditional shades have gorgeous fabrics and custom folds. This is a great option if you’re looking for light management, and the shades can be made of many types of materials, from heavy cloth fabrics to wood, or natural materials and fiber products. Heavier fabrics typically offer better thermal performance and are effective for privacy, blocking sunlight, in addition to room darkening.

Blinds

Whether they’re vertical or horizontal, blinds are effective at keeping heat out. They can reduce heat gain during the summer and effectively block and reflect direct sunlight onto a light-colored ceiling that will diffuse the light and allow you to take advantage of the natural daylight.

Draperies

These are a type of window treatment that reaches all the way down to the floor. Their effectiveness at reducing heat loss or gain depends on the fabric type (open or closed weave) and color, making it more difficult to generalize about their energy performance. However, studies show that medium-colored draperies with white-plastic backings can reduce heat gains by 1/3^rd, and in cold weather, draperies can reduce heat loss from a warm room up to 10%.

Looking upgrade your home’s window treatment to a more energy efficient type? Contact your local Bloomin’ Blinds to schedule a FREE in-home estimate!