Best Energy Efficient Window Coverings for Your Home

When temperatures drop—or soar—your windows can be one of the biggest sources of discomfort in your home. In fact, a significant amount of energy loss happens right at the window. The good news? The right energy efficient window coverings can dramatically improve comfort, reduce energy bills, and transform your space.

Why Energy Efficient Window Coverings Matter

Windows are constantly exposed to outdoor temperatures, allowing heat to escape in winter and pour in during summer. Without proper coverage, your HVAC system works overtime to keep up. Adding insulating window treatments creates a barrier that helps regulate indoor temperatures year-round.

side view of honeycomb shades that insulate the windows against energy loss
Duette® Honeycomb Shades

Studies show that up to 40–50% of a home’s heating and cooling energy can be lost through untreated windows. By adding the right coverings, you can reduce this loss while improving comfort, privacy, and light control.

How Energy Efficient Window Treatments Work

Insulation at the Window

Energy efficient shades—especially cellular designs—trap air within pockets, creating a layer of insulation between your home and the glass. This prevents temperature transfer and reduces drafts.

Blocking Heat & UV Rays

Window coverings protect your interior from harsh sunlight, reducing heat gain and preventing UV damage to furniture and flooring.

before and after of bare windows and silhouette shades showing how window coverings provide reduced glare and energy loss at the window
Silhouette® Window Shades

Smart Adjustments Throughout the Day

With motorized window treatments, you can schedule shades to adjust automatically—closing during peak sun hours and opening when natural light is beneficial.

smart motorized window shades adjusting automatically to improve energy efficiency in home
PowerView® Automation

Top Benefits of Energy Efficient Window Coverings

  • Lower heating and cooling costs
  • Improved indoor comfort year-round
  • Reduced glare for screens and living spaces
  • Protection from UV damage
  • Enhanced privacy and light control
  • Better sleep with room darkening options

Our Top Picks: Best Energy Efficient Window Coverings

#1 Honeycomb (Cellular) Shades

Cellular shades are the gold standard in energy efficiency. Their honeycomb structure traps air, preventing heat transfer and insulating your home in both summer and winter.

Explore Duette® Honeycomb Shades for advanced insulation and design flexibility.

honeycomb cellular shades with insulating pockets reducing heat loss and gain at windows
Duette® Honeycomb Shades

#2 Roman Shades

Roman shades offer layered fabric construction that helps block sunlight and reduce airflow. With customizable fabrics and opacities, they balance style with energy performance.

View Vignette® Modern Roman Shades for a tailored, energy-conscious design.

custom roman shades in neutral fabric improving insulation and style in living room
Vignette® Modern Roman Shades

#3 Cellular Roller Shades

Combining the sleek design of roller shades with cellular insulation, these innovative shades provide both modern style and high energy efficiency.

Discover Sonnette® Cellular Roller Shades for the best of both worlds.

large windows with cellular roller shades improving insulation and reducing heat gain
Sonnette® Cellular Roller Shades

#4 Drapery & Layered Treatments

Layering drapery over shades adds an extra barrier against heat loss and drafts. This combination enhances insulation while elevating the design of your space.

Learn more about custom drapery options for layered energy efficiency.

#5 Plantation Shutters

Wood shutters naturally resist heat transfer. Adjustable louvers allow you to control light direction while maintaining a consistent interior temperature.

Features That Boost Energy Efficiency

  • Top Down Bottom Up: Control light while maintaining insulation
  • Dual Shades: Switch between light filtering and room darkening
  • Motorization: Automate adjustments for maximum efficiency
  • Side Channels: Seal gaps to prevent airflow and light leaks

These features help customize your window treatments for your home’s unique layout and daily routines.

top down bottom up roman shades controlling light and improving energy efficiency in living room
Vignette® Modern Roman Shades with Top Down

Create a More Energy Efficient Home

Energy efficient window coverings do more than reduce utility bills—they improve how your home feels every day. From eliminating drafts to reducing glare and protecting interiors, the right solutions create a more comfortable, functional space.

Not sure where to start? Visit our energy efficiency solutions page to explore options tailored to your home.

Contact our team for a FREE in-home consultation and discover the best energy efficient window coverings for your space.