Save on Energy Bills this Winter

With all the cold weather, we’re spending more time indoors. Winter bills can get very expensive thus making it a good opportunity for homeowners to be more aware of their energy use and make their homes more energy efficient. Aside from unplugging electronics and appliances when not in use to avoid “phantom” power usage, here are three steps you can do around the house to save money on your monthly energy bills and make it more comfortable at the same time.

1. Take control of your Thermostat. Set your thermostat to as low as you’re comfortable. According to the US Department of Energy, simply lowering your thermostat by 10 degrees over an eight hour period can save you around 10% a year on your heating bills. You can do this when you’re asleep or away from the house.
   


2. Reduce air leaks from windows and doors. Warm air leaking out of your home during the winter can cost you lots of money. Air leaks out of your home through unintended holes and cracks. One of the cheapest and easiest you can do is to weatherstrip doors and windows that leak air. Replacing old windows with energy efficient ones if necessary is a significant investment and can save a lot of money in the long run.


3. Install ceiling fans. Consider buying a ceiling fan if you don’t have one in your home. Ceiling fans make you feel cooler during the summer. During the winter, run the ceiling fan in reverse (clockwise) direction (make sure you have a fan that are built to run in reverse). This forces warm air at the top of the room to the bottom and center of the room where the thermostat is. This will help the heating system not to trigger as often, saving you energy costs.


4. Add or Improve Insulation with Thermal Drapes. Replace standard curtains in your home with thermal or insulated drapes. Thermal drapes trap heat to keep your home warm during the winter months. To maximize the benefit of thermal drapes insulating abilities, close drapes tightly at night, and during the day for windows that do not receive direct sunlight. The get the best results, drapes should be hung as close to windows as possible. Also let them make contact onto a windowsill or floor. The fewer gaps between the window and drapes, the better the insulation. FactoryDirectDrapes.com custom-make Thermal Drapes according to your window specifications in whatever style, color or fabric you desire. Simply choose lined drapes and add blackout lining for superior insulation.

Thermal Window Treatments for the Summer Months

By Kathy Woodard

Using thermal window treatments for summer is a smart way to decorate your home and use your budget wisely. Whether you want to make your rooms a more comfortable temperature, or are concerned about getting the best value for your money, here are some great guidelines for using thermal curtains in any home.

Heat/Cold

Thermal draperies or curtains are a great way to keep out the heat and cold from your home. Energy costs continue to skyrocket as energy sources dwindle, and taking conservation steps in your home is an environmentally friendly decision, as well as a budget friendly one.

Sun Damage

One of the other benefits of thermal lined draperies is that they prevent sun damage to your expensive furniture, carpets and artwork. UV rays can penetrate a window and can quickly cause significant damage. Choosing the right window treatments can save you a lot of money in home décor down the road.

Energy Cost and Replacement Savings

Because thermal window treatments block out the suns rays, they keep a room cooler and save you on energy costs. In the winter, they insulate your home from cold air making it less expensive to heat your home.

Additionally, these curtains and drapes are designed to last much longer than your average window treatment, adding value to every dollar you spend. You can expect thermal window treatments to last 10-15 years longer than average window coverings.

Resale

When the time comes to sell your home, having quality window treatments is a plus for any home listing. Thermal window treatments are considered by many home buyers as an energy savings bonus and makes your home more desirable in a tough housing market.

Although all window treatments provide some level of thermal insulation, thermal lined curtains and thermal draperies are the most popular choices. The draperies are lined with a special material that blocks heat and cold with a 50% insulation value. They also offer complete privacy when closed, and block light for bedroom sleeping. Factory Direct Drapes offers the best value and selection for your dollar. They also back their workmanship with a lifetime warranty on all work.

Thermal window treatments for the summer months is one of the best investments you can make in your home, now, and for years to come.

Visit Factory Direct Drapes and use their free Virtual Room Designer to help you choose the best draperies and curtains or valances for your home. Kathy Woodard is a freelance writer and home decorating expert. You can visit her at TheBudgetDecorator.com.

Moved in and Overwhelmed

You’ve just moved into a new home. While looking at your sea of boxes, the proverbial question runs through your head….Where do I start decorating my blank canvas? As overwhelming as it seems it is a great question. I would start with the windows. And here some very good reasons why you should start there...

Privacy and Light - For example, in the bedroom, privacy is the most important reason for draperies. Eliminating natural light while sleeping is generally the second reason why to start with the windows. Try adding blackout lining to draperies for superior privacy and room darkening.

Energy Efficiency - With today’s rising energy costs energy efficiency is more important than ever. In fact, up to 30% of all conventional heat loss in a room can be saved through the use of a nice heavy drapery fabric. But, it’s summer! Even in the sweltering summer heat the thermal lining protects by keeping the cold air in, and keeping the damaging sun rays out. By adding a blackout lining to your drape, the insulation value can increase up to 50%-60%!

Budget Conscience - Yes, believe it of not, there is way to achieve a designer look on a tight budget. When in a new home the budget can very important. When purchasing custom designer drapes and buying directly from the manufacturer you will save you hundreds of dollars per window.