Natural light is a luxury to have in your home, but what are its effects on your energy bills? High summer sunlight can radiate heat through subpar blinds and windows and into your home, making it difficult to maintain comfortable temperatures without always having the AC on. If you suffer from costly utility bills, try the following techniques to mitigate the sun’s heating effects on your home.

How to Avoid High Energy Bills

1. Install Efficient Window Shades or Blinds

Standard options may not always be ideal for keeping out sunlight and the accompanying heat. Look for shades and blinds that are thick and have a positive energy rating. They’ll be made of durable materials like woods or fabrics that effectively block light and limit the transmission of heat into your home.

2. Get Dark Window Treatments

Window treatments include items like curtains and tint or film. Blackout or thick, dark curtains will reduce the amount of sunlight that enters your home. Curtains in dark colors will absorb more light and moderate the amount that heats your home. UV-blocking window film can also be applied to glass to control how much heat enters without blocking light entirely. 

3. Use It to Your Advantage

During the cold months, throw open your curtains and let the low-angled sunlight heat your home. It’ll take some of the stress off of your heating system.

Close your energy-efficient curtains before the sun goes down to hold the heat in and block out the cold. You can also consider installing solar devices or panels on your property to boost your energy efficiency further.

4. Install Outdoor Shading Elements

Block the amount of sun that hits your windows by planting trees or shrubs to provide shade. You can also install an overhang or awning over the windows that get the most light or put up a fence or shed to additional coverage.

Are energy-efficient shades your first step to modernizing your home and lowering your utility bills? Anderson Blinds, Shades, & Shutters in Elkhorn, NE, has over 14 years of experience in the industry, and they’ll take the time to find the best solution for you. Licensed and insured, they offer the accessories your windows need to be efficient. View their products online or call (402) 641-3394 for advice on your sun problems.