FAQs About Effective Energy Efficiency in the Winter
Energy efficiency or efficient energy use allows you to perform the same task, yielding the same results but using less energy. Reducing energy usage has several benefits, such as decreasing the consumption of natural resources, which aids the planet and your wallet. Making your home more energy efficient reduces the resources you need to keep it comfortable, costing you less.
Our Curtain Concepts team has provided helpful answers to frequently asked questions about how to be energy-conscious in the winter. We’ve also shared some energy-efficient window treatments near Huntington, WV, to get you started.
Where Should I Set My Thermostat for Best Energy Efficiency?
According to the United States Department of Energy, the most energy-efficient temperature while your household is up and walking around is between 68ºF and 70ºF. At this temperature, your furnace can counteract heat loss lost through doors, walls, cracks, and windows, which is also where energy-efficient window treatments can help.
For even more energy efficiency, lower the temperature when leaving during the day or sleeping at night to between 60ºF and 65ºF.
How Do Energy-Efficient Window Treatments Work?
Several energy-efficient window treatments on the market, like Hunter Douglas, can reduce heat loss through your windows. Window coverings with thick fabrics or wood materials minimize heat transfer, so your home stays warmer. Practical blinds, shades, shutters, or drapes keep the hot air inside, causing your furnace to run less frequently and lower energy usage.
What Are Types of Energy-Efficient Window Treatments?
Adding layers, like side panels and drapery, can improve energy efficiency and decrease heat loss. Selecting heavier fabrics in warmer colors can also enhance the perceived temperature in your home.
Additionally, other window treatments can help with energy efficiency year-round, including:
- Duette® Cellular Shades.
- Vignette® Roman Shades.
- Heritance® Wood Shutters.
Does a Humidifier Help to Lower My Energy Usage?
Yes, humidifiers can indirectly help lower energy usage during the wintertime. Humid air feels warmer, and the cold often strips moisture from the air. For this reason, using an ultrasonic or cool mist humidifier adds moisture back into the air, so you feel more comfortable at lower temperatures.
Humidifiers also help your furnace run more efficiently, reducing the energy you’re using.
Should I Change My HVAC Air Filters to Help With Energy Costs?
Yes, it’s essential to change your HVAC air filters regularly. Clean air filters allow your heating to flow through your home’s vents without any restrictions that can happen due to dirty air filters.
Cleaning and replacing your air filters lets your HVAC system use less energy to heat or cool your home, keeping your energy consumption low.
Can My Ceiling Fans Improve Energy Efficiency?
Yes, your ceiling fan can help improve your home’s energy efficiency. Ensure your ceiling fan spins clockwise at a low speed in cold months to circulate hot air near the ceiling, as heat tends to rise.
Ceiling fans keep the temperature in your home comfortable, so the heater runs less frequently, and you reduce your energy usage.
Shop Energy-Efficient Window Treatments Near Huntington, WV
If you’re ready to make your home more energy-friendly this winter, our team at Curtain Concepts can help. We’ll collaborate with you to find energy-efficient window treatments, like Duette® Cellular Shades and Vignette® Roman Shades, that meet your home’s needs and match your interior design style.
Contact us online or call (304) 733-5579 to schedule an in-home shopping appointment. Curtain Concepts is located in Huntington, West Virginia. We’re proud to serve our surrounding regions, including Hurricane and Teays Valley, West Virginia, and the Tri-State area of Huntington, Charleston, and Ashland.
