Energy saving value of window film shades
by Melliny
(Florida)
Are transparent roll-up window shades really energy efficient? I am not sure what you call these shades ... I have seen them hanging in various places, but can't find the information I need when looking on line. They are like a regular roll-up shade only they seem to be made of a heavy film. If you want to always have your view available but want to keep the AC or heat in, it seems like these might be a good choice. But I don't see any reference to them in your information about energy-saving window coverings.
Answer from Green Energy Efficient Homes
As I explained in another visitor-submitted answer, Transparent insulating blinds, I have been unable to find a source of these blinds in North America. They work by reflecting infrared and ultraviolet light, which reduces heat gain in the summer and heat loss in the winter. I don't believe they have as good an insulating value as a fitted shade for keeping a house warm in winter, but for Florida where it's more often hot than cold, they should help reduce the amount of heat coming into your house from direct sunlight, while still allowing some sunlight to come in.
Another option is to put energy efficient window film on the inside of your windows. This film applies easily and provides exactly the same energy saving features as a transparent insulating blind - by eliminating up to 38% of heat loss through windows in winter, and up to 70% of heat gain through windows in summer. It blocks virtually no light so you'll hardly notice a change in lighting levels. And you can buy a roll and install it on whatever shape windows you have, which makes it easier to obtain than buying custom-sized transparent insulating blinds - provided, of course, you don't mind spending a little time cutting the window film and fitting it to your windows.
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