What Are the Most Energy Efficient Window Coverings?
30th October 2024
Discover how energy-efficient window coverings can save you money while adding timeless style to your home.
Windows are a big culprit when it comes to household energy usage. Seemingly innocent panes of glass can be responsible for significant movement of heat either into your home in summer or out of your home in winter – driving your heating and cooling costs up as a result.
Did you know that up to 10 times more heat can be lost through a single pane of glass compared to an insulated wall? In fact, during warmer months, up to 87% of a home’s heat gain can be attributed to windows. You only need to hold your hand up against a window on a cold winter’s day to feel how glacial it can get.
So what can you do about it? Aside from going around and replacing all of your windows with double-glazing and energy-efficient window frames – which will deliver results but may be beyond the budget – there are a number of cost-effective solutions that can minimise heat transfer and the best part is that they look great, too.
The benefits of energy-efficient window coverings
Without proper window coverings, it becomes much harder to regulate the temperature inside without an over-reliance on your heating or cooling system. Essentially, a well-fitted window covering is an effective solution to combat the common heat transfer issues associated with single-paned windows. Depending on the type of window covering you choose, they can:
- Trap a layer of still air: Energy-efficient window coverings create a barrier of still air next to the window, helping to insulate your home and minimise heat transfer.
- Minimise heat movement: By reducing the movement of heat into or out of your home, these coverings contribute to maintaining a comfortable indoor environment year-round.
- Provide shade and UV protection: They offer shade against harsh sunlight, not only enhancing comfort but also providing UV protection for your furnishings and flooring.
- Reduce environmental impact: According to the Department of CCEEW, 40% of a home’s heating energy can be lost through windows. Thick curtains, and other energy-efficient window coverings can help keep your home warm.
And then, of course, energy-efficient window coverings can improve a room’s overall aesthetic and style, adding to the ambiance of your living spaces.
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What are the most energy-efficient window coverings?
The good news is that you have plenty of options when it comes to choosing energy-efficient window coverings for your home. There are various styles to suit different tastes, and their effectiveness can vary based on a number of factors such as the climate, the location in the house (for example, east or west-facing windows versus north-facing) and how often the covering is used.
That being said, there are certain window coverings that stand out as being very reliable in reducing heat transfer. Here are our top picks:
Snugly fitted blinds or shades:
Honeycomb or cellular blinds are widely regarded as the most energy-efficient window coverings. The individual cells running down these blinds trap air and have a similar effect to a double-glazed window. In summer, they reflect heat outwards, while in winter, well-fitted blinds create a barrier of still air to prevent heat loss. Consider Roman blinds for optimal insulation.
Thick or insulated energy-efficient curtains:
Heavy fabrics and modern insulating materials do a great job of blanketing your windows. For curtains to be most effective, they should reach the floor and ideally be weighted to minimise movement of air; plus, a pelmet running along the top will help prevent heat transfer. You could also install curtains in front of blinds for additional insulation.
Solar blinds:
Ideal for hot climates, solar blinds block UV rays, protecting your furniture and reducing energy consumption during scorching summers while allowing natural light to brighten your home during the day.
Shutters:
When shutters are closed against the bitter cold or the searing heat, the air between the shutter and the window remains completely still, because there are no moving parts. This, and the fact that they are usually custom-made to fit perfectly within the window frame, makes them a very energy-efficient window covering option, particularly against extreme temperatures.
The final word
Windows play a big role in regulating the temperature within your home, and can therefore significantly impact your energy consumption and costs. Investing in energy-efficient window coverings is not only a smart choice for reducing heat loss and gain but also a sound financial decision that could pay off long term. By minimising the need for excessive heating and cooling, these coverings can lead to substantial savings on your energy bills.
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References
- https://www.yourhome.gov.au/passive-design/glazing
- https://www.sustainability.vic.gov.au/energy-efficiency-and-reducing-emissions/building-or-renovating/windows-and-shading
- https://www.sustainability.vic.gov.au/energy-efficiency-and-reducing-emissions/building-or-renovating/windows-and-shading/reducing-heat-loss-through-windows
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