Are you a homeowner looking to reduce air conditioning costs and protect your interior furnishings from the sun’s glare? Consider adding awnings to your home! According to a study from the Professional Awning Manufacturers Association (PAMA), fixed or retractable awnings can significantly lower air conditioning usage, saving an estimated $200 or more per year.

Managing director of PAMA, Michelle Sahlin, emphasizes, “The sun’s rays through glass account for nearly 20% of your air conditioner’s load. Awnings reduce direct solar gain through windows.” Not only do awnings save money for homeowners, but they also contribute to reducing energy demand, making them an environmentally responsible choice for those concerned about greenhouse gas emissions.

Byron Yonce, chairman of PAMA, points out, “There are more eco-friendly ways to stay cool. While cranking up the air conditioner leads to higher energy bills, awnings and shades work in harmony with the AC, keeping your home cooler and reducing the need for additional energy.”

The American Society of Heating and Air Conditioning Engineers recommends “optimized and/or moveable external shading devices, such as overhangs, awnings, and side fins” to minimize a building’s heat load. A fabric awning can reduce heat gain by 55% to 65% during direct sunlight hours on southern-facing windows or glass doors, and an impressive 72% to 77% for western exposures.

Awnings come in various types, including portable, fixed, and retractable designs. The latter offers the advantage of folding up in winter, allowing the sun’s rays to penetrate through windows and glass doors, contributing to indoor temperature control and reduced energy usage.

Some retractable awnings are motorized for convenience, while others use a simple pulley-and-cord system for manual operation. Most awnings come with variable settings, allowing you to adjust them partially, fully, or halfway.

In addition to their energy-saving benefits, awnings can enhance your home’s aesthetic appeal. Choose from a wide array of fashionable fabrics, including woven, coated, laminated, and mesh options, as well as trendy colorations such as solids, stripes, and patterns.

Most awning fabrics are treated with water-repellent, soil- and stain-resistant finishes, and some are treated with flame retardants. The frames are typically constructed of galvanized steel or aluminum, ensuring durability and longevity.

If you’re looking to cut down on air conditioning costs while beautifying your home’s exterior, consider adding an awning – a smart choice that helps you beat the heat!