 Cooling costs the average homeowner about $1,000 a year. This cost can be curbed by installing more energy efficient items in the home. The federal government may help with some upgrades. There is a Federal program called Weatherization Assistance. The program is run by the states and each state has slight differences in eligibility. You can check your state’s eligibility by calling your state’s Department of Energy. Compensation is available to homeowners who do energy efficient upgrades.
One of the easiest ways to reduce heating and cooling needs by as much as 45% is to use energy-efficient window treatments. Window treatments reduce energy usage by reducing heat exchange between the window itself and the conditioned indoor air. A good set of blinds will create an insulating barrier between the window and the rest of the room. During the summer, window hangings, blinds, or curtains, can help keep sunlight from heating cool indoor air, especially in the afternoon hours. During the winter, closed shades prevent warm air next to cold window glass from cooling. You can feel a noticeable difference when sitting near a window before and after wall treatments are used.
All window coverings can help keep your home cool in the summer months, but some do a better job than others. There are a few tips for cutting power use with blinds. Shutters and window shades are most often cited for reducing a home’s energy requirement from cooling, but solar fabric and window films can also reduce how much your air conditioner has to work to keep your home cool. This can be available in blackout blinds and similar items. Window films work well with shades and can cut energy costs by as much as 30% to 40%. When buying shades, remember triple-cell cellular shades are more efficient than double- or single-cell shades. The thermal lining used in Roman shades can cut cooling requirements by creating an insulating barrier and reducing heat loss.
Check with a blinds expert to green up your home with blinds. There is a variety of beautiful options. Most companies offer materials made from sustainable materials such as recycled plastic, aluminum, and wood. This is just one of the many ways to increase the efficiency of energy utilization in your home.
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