Although less effective, uninsulated shutters kept in a closed position also reduce heat loss forming an insulating package.ĭuring summer, external shading is particularly effective at preventing the solar radiation from reaching the glazed surfaces internal blinds can also contribute to reducing solar energy especially if a reflective finish is applied on the window-facing side. Best-performing products include insulated systems and cellular shades containing multiple air layers in a honeycomb cross-section that are fitted into weather stripped edge tracks. Internal shading with various types of blinds can add thermal resistance to the transparent envelope reducing its thermal energy transmittance i.e. Indeed, shading constitutes a self-financing climate control system in the way it improves insulation, manages solar control and maximise daylighting from increased glazing areas (ES-SO, 2014), as such it represents an investment paid back via the savings in energy use.įixed solar shading designed according to the sun’s peak seasonal angles can reduce solar gains in summer but still permit heat gains from the low angle sun in winter, contributing to reduce space cooling and heating loads. The IEA (International Energy Agency) Technology Roadmap of energy efficient building envelopes identifies dynamic solar control with exterior shading as a standard feature in new and existing buildings, and specifically refers to low-cost automated dynamic shading as one of the technologies where the highest potential of return on R&D investments lies (IEA, 2013). If fitted externally, the savings in HVAC energy were 43% and 47% respectively. Using blinds and shutters in buildings can help to reduce heat gain in the summer, heat loss during winter and control light levels and harvest natural light.īuilding modelling conducted by the National Energy Foundation (UK) using Energy Plus on a model office has highlighted that internal shading by a venetian blind could save 10% of HVAC energy and a roller screen up to 23%. New highly insulated buildings are prone to overheating. Old energy efficient buildings need high energy inputs to keep the temperature at an optimum. Solar shading can help to reduce heating and cooling loads and maximise daylight. ![]() ![]() Getting the energy balance of a building right requires a holistic approach to building design to ensure products and systems work in harmony to maximise the benefits. Blinds and shutters can help reduce heating, cooling and lighting costs - see video
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