Does Closing Curtains and Blinds Really Cut Energy Costs?

Many homes in the UK want to lower their heating costs. A common way to do this is by closing curtains and blinds. But does this really help keep the heat in? The answer is yes. Curtains, blinds, and other types of window coverings create an extra barrier. They help keep warm air inside and cold air outside. This greatly reduces heat loss and leads to better energy savings.

According to the Energy Saving Trust, about 18-20% of heat loss in a home happens through windows, even when using double glazing. Using thick curtains, thermal curtains, and window blinds can really help keep heat inside during cold weather.

1. How Do Curtains and Blinds Reduce Heat Loss?

Windows are a major reason for heat loss in a home. Even when you have double glazing, some hot air escapes. This can make rooms feel colder and more difficult to heat.

Curtains and blinds provide extra protection. They help keep warm air inside and stop cold air from coming in. This reduces heat loss in your space.

• Thick curtains and thermal curtains slow down heat loss. They create a barrier that keeps the warmth inside the home.
• Roman blinds and honeycomb blinds trap warm air in their layers of fabric. This helps prevent heat loss through the glass.
• Venetian blinds and slatted window blinds reduce direct sunlight and glare. This is useful in the summer to stop heat gain.

Using the right curtains and blinds can help reduce heat loss. This can be up to 25%. By doing this, you can cut heating costsby £50 to £150 each year.

2. The Best Types of Curtains for Energy Savings

Not all curtains keep the same heat in. To save energy, you should pick the right curtains for your home.

Best Curtain Options for Reducing Heat Loss

• Thermal Curtains – These thick curtains have a special thermal lining. They keep heat in and stop cold air from coming in through the windows.
• Blackout Curtains – These curtains help to keep heat in and block glare and daylight, especially in the early mornings.
• Layered Curtains – A pair of curtains made with layers of fabric makes a stronger barrier against the cold.
• Floor-Length Curtains – Longer curtains help to stop heat from escaping at the bottom. This is where cold air often comes in.

How to Use Curtains for Maximum Efficiency

• Close the curtains when dusk falls to keep warm air inside.
• Keep the curtains open during the day to let natural sunlight warm the room.
• Make sure the curtains do not block the radiators. This way, heat can spread into the room instead of getting trapped behind the fabric.

You can save money by using thermal curtains and layer fabrics. They can cut heat loss by about 20%. This change can lower your heating bills by £80 to £120 each year.

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3. How Different Blinds Help Reduce Energy Bills

Blinds can help reduce heat loss. They improve insulation, especially when used with thick curtains.

Best Blinds for Energy Efficiency

• Honeycomb Blinds (Cellular Blinds) – These have a unique honeycomb design. This design traps warm air. It can cut heat loss by 40% compared to regular blinds.
• Roman Blinds – They are made from thick fabric. When closed, they give extra insulation.
• Venetian Blinds – They do not insulate as well as thermal curtains. However, they help control heat gain and glare during the day.
• Wooden Blinds – They provide a natural layer of insulation. This keeps cold air from coming into the home.

How to Use Blinds for Maximum Energy Savings

• Close your blinds at night to add a layer of protection from the cold.
• Use Venetian blinds or slatted blinds to manage direct sunlight and cut down on glare in the summer.
• Pair blinds with thermal curtains for the best insulation.

Using insulated blinds can help save money. They can lower heat loss by up to 30%. This change can cut heating costsby £60 to £150 each year.

4. Should You Keep Curtains Closed All Day?

Keeping your curtains closed can help keep heat in. But if you keep them shut all day, you may miss out on natural sunlight. This sunlight is a free source of heat.

Best Strategy for Using Curtains and Blinds:

• During the day: Open curtains and blinds to let in natural sunlight. This warms your home naturally.
• At dusk: Close curtains and blinds. This traps warm air and helps stop heat loss.
• On very cold days: If rooms feel drafty, keeping curtains closed can help keep out cold air.

Using curtains and blinds wisely can help you save another £50-£100 each year on heating bills.

5. Additional Ways to Reduce Heat Loss Through Windows

If you want to improve insulation more, think about these extra steps to stop heat loss:

• Use Storm Windows – If you do not have double glazing, storm windows can give you a temporary layer of insulation.
• Seal Draughts Around Windows – Put draught-proofing strips in place to help stop cold air from leaking in.
• Install Thermal Lining – Adding thermal lining to your current curtains can give you an extra barrier against heat loss.
• Avoid Covering Radiators – Make sure curtains and blinds do not block radiators. This way, heat spreads into the room better.

You can save money by using storm windows, thermal lining, and draught-proofing. This combination can cut heat loss by as much as 50%. It can lower your heating costs by £150 to £250 each year.

FAQs About Curtains, Blinds & Energy Savings

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