# 3 Ways Decorative Window Treatments Can Conserve Energy in Your Home

- Link: https://alpscomfortair.com/three-ways-decorative-window-treatments-can-conserve-energy-home/
- Published: 2017-03-02T14:13:26+00:00
- Author: kathypuig

![](/wp-content/uploads/curtains-250x167.jpg)

Looking to transform the feel of your home? Bring a splash of color and style to
your home and preserve its energy efficiency through window treatments such as awnings,
mini-blinds, blackout curtains, and drapes. Homeowners, who design their window 
treatments wisely, can boost their household energy efficiency savings.

Following these simple window decoration tips can help stretch your climate control
dollar throughout the year.

## **Drape Your Bank Account in Savings**

Regardless of the season, your in-home comfort level is important. Reduce the brutal
summer heat and harsh winter temperatures by choosing the right fabric when purchasing
drapery. For example, drapes with light-colored material facing out and designs 
with shiny white plastic backings will reflect more sunlight, which will help to
control the heat in your home on those hot summer days. Block out unwanted heat 
by ensuring they overlap in the center when closed, touch the ground, are sealed
all the way around, and are flush with the wall along the sides and the top.

During the winter months, drapes can curb the cold weather from disturbing the heat
in your home. Even on the coldest days, you can enjoy free heat and sunlight by 
opening drapes on sun-facing windows.

## **Let the Sun Shine in**

Lavish, decorative drapery isn’t for everyone. If you’re looking for a more functional
option, choose blinds, shades or shutters to improve your home’s energy efficiency.
Although these may not be as powerful in blocking out the sun’s harsh rays as drapes,
they can still help cool your home, and reduce your air conditioning bill. Many 
homeowners enjoy the benefits of adjusting blinds to their preferred level of light
and heat.

Choose shades with reversible designs – light on one side and dark on the other.
Place the light side against the window in the summer to deflect unwanted heat. 
Then, turn the shades around to absorb free heat from the sun during the winter 
months.

## **Install an Awning**

Don’t forget to evaluate the exterior of your home for potential energy savings.
Simple additions to the outside of your home such as awnings provide energy-saving
shade and a chic look. Install awnings on south and west-facing windows to combat
the sun from heating up your home. For convenience, purchase retractable or removable
awnings to let the sun warm your home for free during the colder months.

Looking for more ways to conserve energy at home? Check out our weekly [blog](https://alpscomfortair.com/blog/).