Using curtains to keep the sun out when it's hot and the heat in when it's cold saves energy and cash. Consolidated Edison, the electric company that enables New York to be the city that never sleeps, explains that window treatments act both as a layer of insulation and can reduce the heat in your office, apartment, or home. About 40 percent of unwanted heat comes through windows.
The simple act of shutting the shades in a warm climate will help reduce the amount of air conditioning you use. This will save energy (the average window unit uses 900 watts of power and that figure jumps to 3500 watts for central air) and reduce your monthly bill, as well as greenhouse gas emissions.
About 10 percent of heat energy lost from a building goes straight through the windows, so closing the blinds makes sense whatever climate you happen to live in.
Keep those shades shut. If you’re looking to block the heat, draw curtains during the hottest part of the day, and during times of direct sunlight, especially on south facing windows.
If you’re looking to keep heat in, closing the drapes at night when outside temperatures drop is a good idea. You’ll minimize heating costs and impact. Just don’t block the radiator. If you live in a very cold climate, insulated window treatments may be just the thing.
If your office doesn’t already have shades installed, suggest them to your company’s management.
