For apartment dwellers, cutting down on energy costs is always top of mind. Monthly bills for heating and cooling rented spaces can seriously add up, putting strain on already tight budgets. Luckily, there’s an easy and stylish solution to start saving energy today – installing blackout curtains across your windows.
Blackout curtains completely block external light sources, leading to a darker, cooler indoor environment. By regulating sunlight and temperature, they can have a powerful impact in reducing energy consumption and costs. And as renters know, every dollar saved makes a difference.
Assessing Your Apartment’s Blackout Needs
Before purchasing any window dressings, start by surveying your apartment to determine where blackout curtains will have the highest impact. Pay special attention to any rooms you inhabit during daylight hours for work, sleep, or relaxation. Bedrooms and home offices tend to see the most drastic temperature fluctuation from intense midday sun.
If street lights or a neighboring building’s intense lighting spills into your windows overnight, blackout curtains in the bedroom can also help mitigate this issue. And for marginally cooler spaces like living rooms, lighter blackout curtains can still make a difference in regulating temperature.
Navigating Lease Agreements
As a renter, it’s pivotal to thoroughly review lease documentation before installing any window treatments. While blackout curtains are generally innocuous, some landlords or rental companies prohibit tenants from making certain alterations. Always submit a formal, written request to property management to get the green light.
If your request gets denied or you face resistance, consider negotiating to reach a compromise. Offer to pay a slightly higher portion of energy bills if the blackout curtains slash monthly costs by a justifiable amount.
Budgeting for Costs Up Front
Quality blackout curtains that completely eliminate exterior light can cost between $20-$50 per panel. While not dirt cheap, this investment pays dividends within a year from energy savings. Made from dense, light-blocking fabrics like velvet, felt, or layered blackout cloth, they regulate temperature far more effectively than decorative curtains.
Finding the Best Blackout Curtains
When evaluating blackout curtain options, consider a few key factors:
- Total light elimination capabilities
- Noise and sound dampening
- Insulative properties for added energy savings
- Overall durability and quality
Velvet blackout curtains excel at absorbing sound and insulating rooms. Felt options with thick rubber backing also deliver on all fronts. Custom curtains made from multilayered blackout fabric surpass mass manufactured versions for maximum light blocking.
Factor in Style and Length
Apartment dwellers still want curtains reflecting their personal styles. Luckily quality blackout curtains now come in all colors, patterns, and fabric types to match your vibe. Just ensure the interior blackout lining remains intact.
You’ll also want extended length curtains that fully cover window frames and touch windowsills. Any external light gaps severely compromise efficiency. Consider the room layout and mounting height to get a custom fit.
Installing Blackout Curtains Correctly
To reap the full rewards, install blackout curtains properly using sturdy supporting hardware. Mount extendable bracket rods several inches above the window frame to allow complete light coverage.
Step-By-Step Installation
Follow this straightforward process:
- Mark hardware placement spots above window frames
- Drill screws into supports directly into wall studs
- Slide brackets onto rod, insert rod into supports
- Thread curtains onto rod rings evenly
Use provided adhesive strips to fully affix edges around frames for complete light blockage. Avoid any exterior bleeding.
Once properly installed, immediately adjust thermostats higher to reduce AC strain while testing blackout curtains. Track energy bills over the next quarters to quantify savings, adjusting curtains to maximize efficiency.
Day to day, gently push blackout curtains completely closed when not in use for best temperature regulation. Maintain curtains by promptly fixing any loose hardware or torn fabric edges.
By committing to quality blackout curtains today, apartment renters can realize serious savings over time – all while supporting eco-friendly energy use.
