How to Lower Your Energy Bill with Insulating Window Coverings
- Dan White
- Dec 3, 2025
- 4 min read
Elevate Every View - and Improve Your Home's Efficiency
When temperatures drop in North Idaho and Spokane, your windows become one of the biggest factors in how hard your heating system has to work. In fact, the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) reports that up to 30% of a home’s heating energy is lost through its windows. That means the right window coverings don’t just enhance style — they can make a measurable difference on your utility bill.
At Coeur Window Coverings, we help homeowners choose window treatments that provide comfort, beauty, and long-term savings. Here’s how quality coverings can help you lower your energy costs all year long.
Why Window Coverings Matter for Energy Efficiency
Windows are often the least insulated surface in your home. In winter, warm air escapes through the glass; in summer, harsh sunlight heats rooms faster than your AC can cool them. Without proper insulation, you’re losing energy — and money — every day.
The good news? The right window treatments create a protective barrier that helps regulate temperature, reduce drafts, and improve comfort. When used correctly, they can significantly reduce heating and cooling costs.
Cellular/Honeycomb shades and Shutters are the only window covering that you can get up to a $1200 tax credit from purchasing. Contact us for details.
1. Cellular Shades: The Most Efficient Choice
If energy savings are your goal, cellular (honeycomb) shades are the top performer.
Why They Work
Their signature honeycomb structure traps air, creating a layer of insulation between your window and your home. This helps slow heat loss in the winter and blocks heat gain in the summer.
Real-World Results
Studies from Oak Ridge National Laboratory found that installing cellular shades can reduce heating energy use by up to 24% throughout the cold season.
Your Upgrade May Qualify for Federal Tax Credits
Certain energy-efficient cellular shades qualify for the Federal Energy Tax Credit (up to $1,200) through participating manufacturers. Our team can help you select products that meet the requirements so you can maximize your rebate.
2. Interior Shutters: Durable, Insulating & Now Tax-Credit Eligible
Interior shutters aren’t just beautiful — they’re a powerful insulator. Their solid structure and tight fit create an air barrier that helps regulate indoor temperature year-round.
Why Interior Shutters Improve Efficiency
Louvers close tightly to reduce heat loss in winter.
The solid frame blocks heat transfer better than many soft treatments.
Their design minimizes gaps where cold drafts or summer heat can sneak through.
Norman® Woodlore® Shutters — Qualify for the Federal Energy Tax Credit
One of the biggest benefits today is that Norman® Woodlore® Shutters now qualify for the Federal Energy Tax Credit, allowing homeowners to claim up to $1,200 when installed with the proper energy-efficient configuration.
This makes Woodlore shutters one of the few shutter products on the market that offer:
Long-lasting durability
Timeless curb appeal
Excellent insulation
Federal tax savings
For homeowners who want a window treatment that boosts efficiency and elevates home value, Woodlore shutters are an exceptional choice.
3. Curtains and Draperies for Added Insulation
Quality drapes do more than add softness and style — they can noticeably reduce energy loss.
Heavy, tightly woven fabrics help block drafts.
Floor-to-ceiling or windowsill-length panels minimize heat escape.
Combining drapes with shades (especially cellular shades) creates one of the most effective insulation setups available.
On sunny winter days, simply opening your drapes allows natural warmth in; at night, closing them helps retain it.
4. Other Effective Options
Roman Shades & Layered Fabrics
Offer moderate insulation with a warm, elegant look — especially when lined with thermal material.
Roller Shades
Not as insulating as cellular shades, but effective for heat control and sun management.
Exterior Shades & Awnings
Block harsh summer sun before it hits the glass — ideal for south- and west-facing rooms.
5. Use Your Window Coverings Strategically
Window treatments work best when adjusted intentionally. Yet the DOE notes that 75% of window coverings stay in the same position all day — leaving energy savings on the table.
Winter Strategy
Open shades/drapes on sun-facing windows during the day.
Close all coverings at night to trap heat.
Keep treatments mounted tightly for the best insulation.
Summer Strategy
Keep coverings closed during peak sun hours.
Open them when temperatures drop in the evening or morning.
How can automation increase an insulating window covering's energy efficiency?
According to estimates from the Department of Energy, approximately 75% of operable household shades remain in the same position day in and day out.
This is where window treatment automation steps in, allowing you to schedule your shades to open or close throughout the day or night, maximizing their effectiveness in optimizing your home's energy usage. Automation not only adds convenience to operating your window treatments but also streamlines your home living for enhanced energy efficiency.
"Insulating Window coverings can help with this loss of energy by providing comfort, regulating temperatures, and lowering energy bills." -US Dept. of Energy
Ready to Lower Your Energy Bills? We Can Help.
At Coeur Window Coverings, we offer expert guidance, premium products, and complimentary in-home consultations to help you choose the perfect energy-efficient window treatments for your home.
Whether you're considering cellular shades, shutters, drapes, or motorization, we’ll help you select solutions that deliver both luxury and long-term savings.
Book your consultation today — and start saving in style.
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