7 Window Treatments That Keep the Heat Out—and Your Energy Bill Low

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Window treatments aren’t just about looks. They’re also an easy way to manage heat—raising your windows’ insulation ability by trapping air between the glass and the fabric rather than letting it into the room. With the right kind of coverage, you can keep warmth outside where it belongs and exert more control over your energy bill.

Types of Energy-Efficient Window Treatments

A few types of window treatments are better than others for keeping heat out and energy costs down, including cellular shades, Roman shades, solar shades, and multi-layer thermal curtains.

• Cellular shades: The most effective option because they have “cells” with a unique honeycomb shape that create air pockets to prevent hot air from coming in. Cellular shades come in both single-cell and double-cell versions, with double-celled offering the most insulation. 
• Roman shades: So long as you opt for a lined version, Roman shades provide the second-best barrier against unwanted hot air. They’re a nice option for those wanting a decorative touch alongside efficacy. 
• Solar shades: Essentially a subtype of roller shades, solar shades are good for blocking heat because they intercept some (but not all) sunlight at windows, with more opaque versions blocking the most. They’re great if you want to preserve a bit of your view while still lessening overall energy costs. 
• Thermal curtains: Although they’re the least effective option on their own, thermal curtains pair well with cellular or solar shades to reduce hot sun and air. If you’re planning on using them alone, choose two- or three-layer panels for the best protection.

No matter which window treatment type you decide on, opening them at night when the outdoor temperature is low and closing them again as the day heats up will help minimize heat transfer. Over time, you’ll run your AC less often, reducing your overall bill. 

Interested in some budget-friendly ways to minimize the amount of extra energy you consume this summer? See these tips for making your windows more efficient. 

Available in virtually any size and a huge variety of colors, these customizable single- or double-cell shades offer continuous cord, cordless, or motorized smart functionality and include all the hardware you need for a quick 15-minute installation.

With a cordless design that opens from the top or bottom for heat protection plus privacy, these easy-to-clean and affordable honeycomb shades are available in five colors and nine sizes. 

These elegant Roman shades come in a vast array of solid or patterned fabrics, three liner options (including a thermal sateen), and custom sizes for the perfect balance of luxury and energy efficiency.

These solar shades help keep your home cool while preserving your outdoor view, featuring neutral and boldly colored fabrics in various opacities that block up to 99 percent of UV rays and several lift options, including motorized smart controls.

Sold in pairs and several sizes and colors, these machine-washable curtains feature two layers of triple-weave fabric with a removable felt liner for 100 percent blackout protection and effective thermal insulation. 

Available in a wide variety of neutrally colored Greenguard-certified fabrics, these customizable skylight shades have a honeycomb design for effective insulation and are easy to operate via cordless or smart-home-compatible control.

Designed with kid-safe cordless and motorized controls, these custom-made room-darkening shades come in playful patterns like clouds and polka dots as well as calming muted colors to create a whimsical, restful environment for naps and nighttime.

 

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