How would you like to save 25% on your next energy bill? It sounds like a dream come true right, especially with Arizona’s summer heat and the bills to cool your home in the summer. Believe it or not, window coverings can make it possible. A U.S. Department of Energy study found that on average, homeowners can save up to 25% thanks to the right window covering choices, and that could not only mean a lower energy bill, but also a cooler home. Wondering what defines energy-efficient window coverings? This quick guide can help.
Window Blinds
These are a good choice. The horizontal slats mean some of the heat can get into your home, but choosing a highly reflective choice can help to reduce that heat. What’s more, though, is that they offer some measure of flexibility. You can adjust those slats as the temps cool off at night to control ventilation and let some of that cooler air in.
Cellular Shades
These are one of the easiest ways to save energy, but to do so, you’ll need to make sure that they’re drawn all day while you’re trying to keep your home cool. The cellular shades should be mounted close to the glass to help seal up any space where the heat might come into your home. Their layers help to act as an air barrier, which makes them a pretty effective choice.
Blackout Curtains
This type of curtain offers you a dual benefit. Many people are familiar with the primary benefit – they help keep the light out. That can be an amazing help for night shift workers who need to sleep during the day or those who struggle to sleep at night. They also help save energy, though. Keeping that light out means keeping the heat out, which can help keep your home much cooler. The key, though, is to ensure they’re closed well before the heat starts each day.
Automated Window Treatments
This is one of the newest ways to keep your home cooler. It’s derived from the smart home trend, and the idea here is that you program these to open and close on a set schedule. That helps to not only make your home safer (it eliminates the cords that can harm kids and pets), but it also keeps your home much cooler, as you can decide just how much light and heat you want in the room, even when you’re away.
Not sure which one is best for your home? Let Gallery of Shades help you find the right window treatment to keep that heat outside and your energy bill lower!