5 Treatments that Lower Your Heating Bill
Did you know that you can lower your heating bill with effective window treatments? Your windows can lose as much as 50% of the heat in your home! Even modern energy efficient windows are still a major source of heat loss in the winter. This heat loss is also a major source of discomfort, which is explained by the Mean Radiant Temperature effect. (Time for a little science, bear with us!)
Mean Radiant Temperature (MRT) effect is roughly the average temperature of all the objects or surfaces in a space. An MRT that is warmer than the skin temperature of a person will cause the person to feel warmer, and an MRT that is colder than the skin temperature of a person in the room will cause that person to feel colder. If a cold window is lowering the average room temperature it will feel colder than it really is. Raising the average increases home comfort. It is easy to see how an effective window treatment can not only save energy costs but will contribute greatly to your home comfort.
So let’s look at the top 5 options for putting a stop to your hard earned heating dollars literally flying out the window! In order here are 5 options to Lower Your Heating Bill;
#1 – Cellular Shades with Side Channels
Insulating cellular shades offer much more insulation than standard rollers or blinds. They do this by trapping air within the shades as well as between the shade and the window itself. The most efficient fabrics combine multiple cells with a metallized polyester layer that acts as a barrier to radiant heat. This layer of insulation is most effective when combined with side channel weatherstripping that increases the efficiency of this treatment by 2.5 to 3X. At a combined R-Value of over 7 this is your most effective option. We have hundreds of options of fabric for this system, with colours to suit any decor.
#2 – Insulated Cellular blinds
Some consumers prefer blinds that can be operated on the window, not strictly up or down like typical cellular or roller shades. Operable Cell Blinds offer the convenient operation of a blind with the soft fabric look and feel of a shade. Innovative fully functional vanes compress to offer a clear view and expand to 1″ cells to provide significant insulation for year round energy efficiency. On the left in the picture below you can see the shade in the closed position, like a standard cellular shade, but on the right the open position is illustrated. This is a very versatile option with a variety of hardware systems to choose from exclusively at Stevens Creek Shutter Co.
# 3 – Roman Shades
Roman Shades are a classic choice for traditional home style and function. When combined with a substantial face fabric and insulated lining Roman Shades can be a great choice. For maximum insulation value the shades should be mounted tight to the window and allow as little air flow as possible. The are versions available that combine the look of fabric with side channels to block airflow. Best of all the versatility of roman shades add control over view, privacy, and glare.
# 4 – Insulated Drapery
Sometimes the best choices are the tried and true.
Our Victorian ancestors would combat un-insulated walls, leaky windows and dodgy heating systems with heavy lined drapery. Often installed ceiling to floor and wall to wall the warm velvets and heavy brocades of the era did more than add romance and elegance. They acted as insulation to keep out the winter cold! Even beds were surrounded by beautiful draperies to keep things cozy. Now we are not trying to suggest that heavy draperies are a practical solution for everyone, but done well with a header to trap air at the top and well fitted they are in fact an effective option.
# 5 – Automated Window Treatments
It might seem obvious, but in order for any of these treatments to work effectively they need to be closed completely in order to insulate. The highest level of efficiency is seen today in net zero commercial projects and what they all have in common is automated window coverings. By automating the treatments to close when needed, and open when there is sufficient sun for thermal heat gain you insure that the chosen treatments are getting 100% utilization. More affordable than ever, motorization with automated controls allows you to have total peace of mind that you are able to lower your heating bill as effectively as possible. Stevens Creek Shutter Co is a Somfy Motorization Expert and we have many options to choose from in all price ranges.
Let’s make it happen
For more information on energy efficient window treatments that lower your heating bill check out this great independent resource from our neighbours to the south, Efficient Window Coverings.org
Contact us today for your complimentary in home consultation to find the right treatment for your home. We bring samples, and explain the process thoroughly, no hassle, no pressure! We make quality custom window treatments easy. Call us at 613-706-1250 or email info@stevenscreekshutterco.ca
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