Q & A - Window Shades

Q: I’m looking at window treatments online, and some claim to cut down on energy costs. Is this possible?

A: Yes, this is possible. You likely aren’t looking at blackout curtains but consider their effect on a sunny window. Pulled shut during a hot summer day, they reduce the warming effects of the sun. Open them up during a cool winter day and the sun warms the room. These are both examples of energy being saved by reducing the need to cool or heat that room.

Plantation shutters and various blinds that block out the sun and darken a room would likely reduce your energy costs. Motorized window shades that block out all or most of the sun may also help. Calculating your savings will be difficult, but for many just knowing they are saving energy is enough. It’s good for their pocket, and good for the environment.