Energy Efficient Shutters: Save on Energy Bills

Shutters aren’t just an attractive decorative window treatment – they can also help improve your home’s energy efficiency. With advanced design features and smart material choices, today’s shutters go beyond aesthetics to provide real energy savings benefits.

Installing energy efficient shutters is an investment that can lower your energy bills for years to come. In this article, we’ll look at how shutters can slash energy waste, what to look for in shutters optimized for efficiency, and how much you can save in the long run.

How Do Shutters Reduce Energy Use?

Shutters impact energy use in several key ways:

Insulation

Closed shutters act as an extra layer of insulation over windows to reduce heat transfer in and out of the home. This helps minimize the load on heating and cooling systems.

Air Infiltration

Shutters form an airtight seal when closed to prevent drafts. This further decreases heat loss/gain and wasted energy from leaky windows.

UV Protection

Shutters block harmful ultraviolet rays that can cause window treatments to fade and furniture/floors to discolor. This protects investments in décor and furnishings.

Visible Light Control

Adjustable shutters regulate natural light entering the home. More light means less reliance on artificial lighting during the day, reducing energy consumption.

Temperature Regulation

The shade provided by closed shutters cools homes in summer. In winter, shutters create an insulating buffer against cold outdoor air. This leads to energy savings year-round.

Features of Highly Efficient Shutters

To maximize energy savings benefits, look for these efficiency-boosting shutter features:

Insulated Cores

Composite shutter panels containing insulated foam or aerogel cores provide thermal resistance nearly on par with wall insulation.

Tight Overlap

Minimal gaps between shutter panels prevent air infiltration. Side channels also guide shutters snugly together.

Complete Coverage

Full-height shutters without gaps at the bottom or top optimize efficiency benefits across the entire window surface.

Durable Seals

Flexible seals made of materials like silicone or brush pile prevent air leaks along shutter panel edges.

Louver Control

Controllable louvers allow managing both privacy and sunlight. Fully-closed louvers provide maximum light blocking and insulation.

Reflective Finishes

Light-colored shutters and shutter finishes with reflective properties like aluminum reflect solar radiation to reduce heat gain.

Reinforced Construction

Sturdy shutter designs prevent sagging, warping and gaps over time that can compromise efficiency.

Advanced Materials

Innovative materials like aerogel infused wood, aluminum, and heat-reflective vinyl enhance shutter efficiency.

How Much Can You Save from Efficient Shutters?

Energy savings from shutters depend on factors like climate, window size, orientation, and current window treatments. However, placing high efficiency shutters on windows that receive direct sunlight during peak hours offers the most potential for dramatic savings.

Some average savings estimates from energy efficient shutters:

• Heating and cooling: 10-25% lower energy costs
• Peak load reduction: Shutters can cut up to 96% of heat gain at peak times
• Annual savings: Approximately 30 cents per square foot of shutter coverage

For example, a 2,400 square foot home in a hot climate could save over $300 per year from lower AC costs with shutters on their 10 most exposed windows. Those numbers multiply over 5, 10 or 15 years of shutter life, compounding savings.

Smart Ways to Maximize Energy Savings

Follow these tips to make the most of your shutter investment for reduced energy bills:

Prioritize Problem Areas

Start by installing shutters on south and west-facing windows that get intense direct sun exposure, then tackle other areas.

Layer with Other Window Treatments

Combine shutters with curtains and blinds to optimize insulation, light control and efficiency.

Close During Peak Times

Keep shutters fully closed midday in summer and at night in winter for maximum temperature moderation when needed most.

Use Light Colors

Choose light-colored shutters to minimize heat absorption from sunlight. Or select reflective finishes like aluminum.

Seal and Insulate Surrounding Areas

Prevent efficiency leaks by sealing and insulating areas around windows to complement new shutters.

Automate Where Possible

Have motorized shutters programmed to close automatically at times when solar heat gain or cold air infiltration peaks.

Check for Rebates and Tax Credits

Look into renewable energy incentives and programs that may offer rebates or credits for installing qualifying energy efficient shutters.

Do an Audit

Conduct an energy audit before and after shutter installation to accurately determine resulting energy savings in your unique home.

Make Shutters Part of Your Efficiency Strategy

Energy efficient shutters offer an attractive way to cut electricity costs and reduce environmental impact. Combined with smart thermostat schedules, HVAC maintenance, and other efficiency measures, high-performance shutters are a valuable part of any whole-home energy savings strategy.

If enhancing sustainability while adding beautiful architectural details appeals to you, be sure to factor energy efficiency into your shutter selection process. The investment will pay ongoing dividends for years through lower utility bills and improved comfort and livability. Consult with shutter experts to ensure you choose options optimized for both aesthetics and maximum efficiency.