New in-store label for window coverings will give shoppers a clear view of energy savings

(ACEEE blog, 2 May 2019) In US stores this year, consumers will see a new label on window attachments such as blinds and shades that will help them find the product with the greatest energy savings for their climate.

Whether installing storm windows to ward off drafts in the winter or closing blinds and shades to keep out hot summer sun, many consumers already use window attachments to help keep their homes comfortable. Shoppers understand that window attachments can improve comfort and reduce energy bills, but until now they haven’t had the information needed to compare these products and select the most energy-efficient styles.

As the latest brief in our Emerging Opportunities in Buildings series explains today, the Attachments Energy Rating Council’s new Energy Improvement label is designed to fill that gap. Based on a product rating and certification program developed for AERC by Lawrence Berkeley National Lab, the label lets consumers compare expected energy savings for window attachments in warm and cool climates. Participating manufacturers have started to label products they offer for retail sale; labeling information is also available on the AERC website and from specialty dealers and interior designers.   

The labels are already appearing in some stores. AERC and its members are working with big box home improvement stores and other retailers to educate sales staff and get their buy-in for in-store promotional materials. At this point, storm window manufacturers have been most active in labeling their products, but consumers should find labeled cellular shades and other decorative products in stores later this year.  

Extensive research and modeling went into development of the AERC rating program. These studies demonstrate that window attachments are not created equal when it comes to energy efficiency. Shades, blinds, shutters, interior and exterior storm windows, and other window attachments can improve home energy performance and comfort by reducing heating and air-conditioning energy use. Products that incorporate improved materials, c

External link

ACEEE blog, 2 May 2019: New in-store label for window coverings will give shoppers a clear view of energy savings