Most people know that windows are a common source of heat transfer. Just press your hand against a window on a hot or cold day to feel it in action. In the summer, when the sun is the hottest windows allow warm sunlight into the home, which often competes with air conditioning. During the winter months, heat can escape through windows causing your furnace (or heat source) to work even harder. Regardless, energy saving window treatments may help.
These blinds and shades can block harmful UV rays and prevent transfer of hot and cold air. The most effective energy-saving window treatments are cellular shades. They can provide an R-value of 4.6 (think of it like insulation) and reduce the transfer of heat by up to 22%. Even curtains can reduce heat loss by up to 10%. That can help reduce your heating and cooling costs. It may not be that big of a deal from day to day, but over the course of a year, the savings may really add up.
Close the window treatment during times of peak sunlight during the summer to keep the house cool. During winter months, you can open them to allow the sun in and close off other rooms to protect from heat loss. So if you have windows that capture direct sunlight during the day, or are looking for ways to reduce your heating and cooling bills, consider energy-saving treatments to help reduce your utility costs.
Consult A+ Blinds to find the perfect window treatment.