The Right Window Shade Equals Lower Energy Costs

If I asked you to list five ways to save energy in your house, I’ll bet that window shades would never be on your list. Make it a list of twenty energy-saving tactics and they still wouldn’t make the list. We tend to think of window shades as only providing privacy and decor. But the right shade can also save you considerable money on both heating and cooling costs for your home.

The insulating window shades made by cellularwindowshades.com are good examples of shades that save energy. These cleverly designed, double-cell pleated shades look great, as you would expect. They come in many colors and translucencies, from full blackout fabrics to thin, light admitting types. But what is not readily visible is the insulating benefit they provide.

When the window shade is pulled down, or up if you select that style, the double cellular honeycomb pleats open up and form small air spaces. Still (non-moving) air is the best insulator in the world. The cells in the shades provide a double layer of still air. Install these window shades and your windows that turn so cold on a winter night are now covered with an effective insulating blanket, cutting your heating bill significantly. In the summer, the insulating shade helps keep out the hot summer temperatures and sun, thus lowering your air conditioning costs.

The insulating benefits can be further enhanced by installing the sidetracks they offer. These “enclose” the open ends of the cells to hold the insulating air inside the cells even better.

The manufacturer claims these shades can pay for themselves in energy savings in as little as five years. I can assure you there are not many products you can buy for your home, or build into your home, that will pay back their cost this quickly. And that doesn’t even consider the aesthetic and privacy benefits they provide. Plus, they are made in America.