Outdoor blinds, including patio and drop-down blinds, not only enhance the look and functionality of your outdoor spaces but also help you save on energy costs. By controlling the amount of sunlight and airflow entering your home, outdoor blinds provide year-round benefits that reduce reliance on heating and cooling systems.
Here are five ways outdoor blinds can boost your home’s energy efficiency and contribute to a more sustainable lifestyle.
1. Outdoor Blinds Block Heat During Summer
In the hot summer months, sunlight streaming through windows can raise indoor temperatures significantly, forcing your air conditioning to work overtime. Outdoor blinds act as a barrier, blocking the sun’s rays before they hit your windows.
By preventing heat from entering, outdoor blinds can lower the indoor temperature naturally, reducing the need for air conditioning. Studies show that shading devices like blinds can reduce solar heat gain by up to 77%, depending on window orientation. This not only saves energy but also lowers your electricity bills.
2. Outdoor Blinds Retain Heat in Winter
While outdoor blinds are great for keeping the heat out in summer, they’re equally effective at retaining warmth during the colder months. When installed properly, they create an insulating layer between your home and the elements.
This layer helps to trap heat inside your home, reducing heat loss through windows and doors. By minimising drafts and maintaining a stable indoor temperature, outdoor blinds help your heating system work more efficiently, resulting in lower energy usage.
3. Control Natural Light
Outdoor blinds allow you to control the amount of natural light entering your home, reducing the need for artificial lighting during the day. By adjusting the blinds, you can let in just the right amount of light while still keeping the harsh glare and heat at bay.
This not only saves energy but also creates a comfortable and well-lit environment in your home. Fabrics like Solarview mesh are particularly useful, as they provide privacy and glare reduction without completely blocking natural light.
4. Reduce Cooling Costs for Outdoor Areas
Outdoor blinds aren’t just for windows — they’re also a fantastic addition to patios, verandas, and pergolas. By shading these spaces, blinds create a cooler environment for entertaining and relaxation.
With a more comfortable outdoor space, you’re less likely to rely on energy-intensive cooling devices like fans or portable air conditioners. This is especially beneficial during peak summer months when energy demand is high.
5. Improve Overall Insulation
High-quality outdoor blinds made from durable, UV-resistant materials add an extra layer of insulation to your home. This reduces temperature fluctuations and keeps your indoor environment more stable, regardless of the weather outside.
For maximum efficiency, consider a motorised option, which can be adjusted with the push of a button for precise control. This ensures your blinds are always optimised for energy savings, even if the weather changes throughout the day.
Let Awnings Plus Help You Save Energy with Outdoor Blinds
At Awnings Plus, we specialise in high-quality outdoor blinds designed for New Zealand homes. Whether you’re looking to improve insulation, block heat, or create a comfortable outdoor space, our range of blinds can help you achieve your goals.
With options like drop-down blinds, patio blinds, and Solarzip systems, we offer customisable solutions tailored to your home’s needs.
