Keeping energy costs low during the cold winter months is at the top of every homeowner’s mind. But before reaching for the thermostat, you may want to know these easy tips for keeping your home cozy without increasing the heating bill.
Window blinds confine heat to where you need it the most
According to Be Home, unfurnished windows can account for 10-25% of heat loss in a home — even if they aren’t incredibly drafty. This drain means your heater is working harder to compensate for the loss and you’re either turning up the heat or putting on layers to stay warm.
Blinds are an effective window covering that can be used to keep your home cool in the summer and warm in the winter. It’s flexibility allows for homeowners to adjust the slats to control the light and air flow – one of the main reasons why the Department of Energy has identified them as an “energy-efficient window attachment.”
Focus on both exterior- and interior-mounted shades
The closer the blind is to the window, Be Home explained, the better it will act as an insulator. An inside mount blind is ideal for providing the most protection from cold drafts and heat loss, while an exterior-mounted shade keeps cold and wet snow and debris off of the window frame. By replacing a single-pane window with an energy-efficient window and insulating blind or shade, a homeowner can save $126-$465 a year according to Energy Star.
Make sure your home is prepared for winter and contact the experts at Phantom Screens for any questions about your indoor and outdoor screen needs.