Best Energy-Efficient Blinds: Top Picks, Benefits & Buying Guide

Looking to lower your energy bills without sacrificing indoor comfort during extreme weather? Energy-efficient window coverings enable you to do exactly that—with some serious style to boot.

Combine the latest in energy-efficient blinds and shades with our tried-and-true tips for making the most of your window treatments, and you’ll conserve energy and save money at the same time. Keep reading for our top picks and quick guide to saving the world (and your wallet), one shade at a time.

What Are Energy-Efficient Window Treatments?

Energy-efficient window treatments are marvels of innovation designed to lessen indoor heat gain and cut energy usage. These cool customers can reduce heat gain by a whopping 77 percent, according to the Department of Energy, meaning a significantly cooler interior when summer hits. Meanwhile, Rocky Mountain High Institute points to variations in savings depending on locale, temperature, and blinds operation schedule. 

Yet still, annual savings could soar up to $830! If preserving your pocket and the planet strikes a chord, these energy-efficient window whizzes are well worth exploring.

What You Need to Know About Energy-Efficient Blinds and Shades

Understanding energy-efficient window treatments is as simple as picturing a thermos. Just like how it maintains your drink's temperature, these savvy shades insulate your home, keeping it warm in the winter and cool in the summer. 

Differing from regular window treatments, their secret lies in superior construction and thoughtful materials reduction, leading to lower energy consumption. 

This is how they compare and work: 

Normal Blinds

• Let in Heat (summer) -> AC works harder -> Increased energy usage
• Let out Heat (winter) -> Heating systems overwork -> Increased energy usage

Energy-Efficient Blinds

• Reflect Heat (summer) -> Less AC usage -> Reduced energy consumption
• Preserve Heat (winter) -> Lower heating needs -> Reduced energy consumption

Shopping for new window treatments? If you’re looking for energy-efficient window coverings, you should focus on two types: cellular shades and solar shades.

What Are Cellular Shades?

Cellular shades, also called honeycomb blinds, are composed of honeycomb-shaped cells made from fabric. The cells filter natural light, creating a warm glow in your interior. The cell shape also creates an effective barrier between your room and the window glass, ensuring that your home stays cool in the summer and warm in the winter.Depending on the style you choose – including top down bottom up as well as single- and double-cell shades – you can completely control the temperature and amount of natural light that comes into your rooms.

Check out our cellular blinds buying guide to learn more about this window treatment.

CHECK OUT OUR COLLECTION OF CELLULAR SHADES

What Are Solar Shades?

They’re designed like a classic roller shade. The difference is the material used to make them. Our solar shades are made from fabrics that are engineered to block out a significant percentage of harmful UV rays while still allowing direct sunlight into your rooms.

Appropriate for indoor and outdoor use, solar shades block anywhere from 86 to 99 percent of UV rays that would otherwise stream into your home every day, causing damage not just to your furniture but to your loved ones, as well. 

These shades are also excellent climate control aids. They’ll help your HVAC system efficiently maintain room temperature no matter the season.

Our Top 6 Most Energy-Efficient Blinds and Shades

Whether you’re moving into a new home or renovating your current haven, these window coverings are our top picks for energy efficiency. Here, you’ll find options for every interior design style and budget.

Best-in-class UV Filtering

Our one percent openness solar shades minimize sun damage and glare. While they can be custom-made to suit most window sizes, they’re an ideal pick for large outdoor spaces.

(Premier 1% Solar Screen Roller Shades)

Pros:

• A variety of colours available
• Flame-retardant
• Greenguard Certified

Cons:

• Limited light blockage
• Not fully polyester

Modern Fit for Any Room

These solar shades block 97 percent of the sun’s UV rays and are available cordless or with a continuous cord loop. We love them for their versatile design options.

(Premier 3% Solar Screen Roller Screen)

Pros:

• Greater light visibility
• Suitable for exterior use
• Lead and formaldehyde-free

Cons:

• Less light blockage
• High PVC content

Simplicity that Fades Into The Background

If you’re looking for window coverings that do their job without making a statement, these are the shades you’re looking for. Their simplicity allows your home and furnishings to shine.

(Premier 10% Roller Shades)

Pros:

• High light visibility
• Moderate privacy level

Cons:

• Reduced light blockage
• Not optimal for light-sensitive areas

Budget-brilliant Honeycomb Shades

These double-celled shades are smartly designed to make the most of your window treatment budget without sacrificing any style points.

(3/8” Budget Double Cell Light Filtering Cordless)

Pros:

• Excellent insulation
• Good sound absorption

Cons:

• May fit tightly in windows
• No shade colour variations

Total Control in a Window Covering

This pick combines traditional cellular shade design on the top with a blackout shade on the bottom. Use them in combination to create the atmosphere you’re looking for in your interiors, no matter how sunny it is outside.

Pros:

• Safer for pets and children
• Reduced light entry

Cons:

• Higher initial cost
• Potentially tricky repairs

Transformative Window Treatment

These top-down bottom-up shades come in a breathtaking array of 29 designer colors, making it possible for you to create the look of your dreams without blowing your budget.

(7/16” Double Cell Light Filtering)

Pros:

Customizable cord options

Easy to install

Cons:

Might take up to 7 days to produce

Specific depth requirements

How to Use Window Treatments to Make Your Home More Energy-Efficient

Harnessing the power of window treatments can turn your home into an energy-conserving haven, regardless of season or climate zone. Even the US Department of Energy advises to "...be strategic about which coverings you open and close throughout the day..." 

Looking to make a big difference in your heating or cooling bill ASAP? Here’s how to make any window shades or blinds more energy-efficient today:

• Raise or open traditional blinds during the winter to let your home soak up as much warmth from the sun as possible.

• Keep window coverings drawn over drafty windows to prevent swings in interior temperature—or allow heated air to escape.

• Close window blinds or shades during summer days to keep your home cool without needing to blast your air conditioning.

• Layer shades or blinds behind drapes to build a more effective thermal barrier.

With these tips in hand along with our energy-efficient shade and blind shopping guide, you’re set to save from season to season. Whether you’re keeping your family warm as the temperatures drop or want a cool down without cranking up the AC, these top picks and energy-efficient tricks will help you achieve your goals without boosting your bills.

SEE OUR RANGE OF BLACKOUT BLINDS

Safety Features of Energy-Efficient Blinds

Energy-efficient blinds aren't just about conserving energy; they’re crafted with safety in mind. Alternatives like cordless versions eliminate the risk of little ones or furry friends getting tangled.

This is a response to the troubling Consumer Product Safety Commission statistic of nine young children tragically strangling on cords each year.

Maintenance and Care

Well-maintained blinds are key to their energy-efficient performance and longevity. But don’t worry; caring for these window wonders can be a breeze. Here's a straightforward checklist to keep them shipshape:

• Regular Dusting: Use a feather duster or a vacuum with a soft brush attachment to keep dust and grime at bay.
• Spot Cleaning: Wipe spills and stains with a damp cloth as soon as they occur.
• Routine Inspection: Check for wear and tear while cleaning. Prompt maintenance preserves effectiveness and aesthetic appeal.

Armed with these tips, you can keep your blinds dazzling and efficient for years.

Conclusion

Energy-efficient blinds truly are heavyweight champions, delivering cost savings, eco-friendly benefits, and a safer setting for our beloved little ones and pets. They’re more than a pretty view – they’re a beautiful investment. So why not step up your window game and start saving energy costs and, by extension, the environment?

Ready to dive in? Explore our array of energy-efficient coverings. Try our free samples and see the magic for yourself. 

Questions? Get in touch – we'd love to exchange ideas on this energy-saving journey. You can share this article as well to let others experience what these window treatments have to offer.

FAQs

What type of blinds are most energy efficient?

For topping energy efficiency, honeycomb or cellular shades take the prize. Their unique structure provides outstanding insulation against both heat and cold.

Are energy-efficient blinds worth it?

Absolutely! Energy-efficient blinds bring down electricity bills and boost indoor comfort—an investment that surely pays off!

What is more energy efficient blinds or curtains?

Although both aid energy efficiency, blinds offer a bit more flexibility. They allow light control while providing insulation, nudging them ahead of curtains.

What blinds prevent heat loss?

Honeycomb blinds are the thermal warriors here. As they can trap air in distinct pockets, they excel in heat loss prevention.