If you live in a hot climate, you know the struggle. Your air conditioner runs constantly, your energy bills skyrocket, and certain rooms still feel like ovens. Here’s something most people don’t realize: Heat gain and loss through your windows accounts for 25% to 30% of your home’s heating and cooling energy use.
Fortunately, the right window attachments can dramatically cut those costs while making your home more comfortable. Energy-efficient window coverings reduce solar heat gain and take serious pressure off your cooling system, bringing substantial savings on utility bills – up to 13.5% The challenge is knowing which products actually deliver on their promises.
How to Find the Best Window Attachments for You
Not all window attachment products and product categories are the same, so how can you find what is right for you and your climate? The Attachments Energy Rating Council (AERC) is an independent organization that tests and rates window coverings for energy performance and have created a label for AERC certified products which allows you to compare performance of different products to help you find exactly what you need to reduce heat (or cold), save on energy and enhance your home’s comfort.
Here’s what you need to know to read the label:
- Your Climate Zone: Window attachment products are rated for both cool and warm climates. If you’re in a warm climate, you’ll want to pay more attention to the Warm Climate Rating.
- Benefits of Automation: Energy savings can vary depending on whether the product is operated manually or with automation. AERC provides two separate ratings: one reflecting typical use and one that accounts for automated operation.
- Higher Ratings: A higher Warm Climate Rating means the product is expected to provide more energy savings in warm climates. The closer the rating is to the maximum for that product type, the more effective it will be.
- Not Applicable: If a product shows “Not Applicable” for the Warm Climate Rating, it isn’t recommended for energy improvement in warm climates.
Understanding these labels helps you compare products objectively instead of relying on marketing claims.
Top AERC-Certified Product Types for Hot Climates
Different window attachment types offer varying levels of heat protection. Here are the best performers with their Warm Climate Maximum Ratings:
- Solar screens are tightly woven screens that block heat and reduce glare while maintaining visibility. The maximum rating is 90.
- Awnings are installed outside windows to shield them from direct sunlight, helping lower indoor temperatures. The maximum rating is 85.
- Roller shades are smooth, retractable shades that can be used manually or with automation. The typical use maximum rating is 55, and the automation rating is 100.
- Cellular shades have a honeycomb structure that traps air for added insulation. The typical use maximum rating is 50, and the automation rating is 100.
- Roman shades are fabric shades that fold neatly when raised and provide moderate heat reduction. The typical use maximum rating is 50, and the automation rating is 70.
- Storm windows are secondary windows that reduce solar heat gain and improve insulation. The maximum rating is 55.
Comparing products within the same category makes it easier to see how they perform and helps you choose the best options for your space.
The Automation Advantage
As you can see from the ratings mentioned in the previous section, automated control systems have a significant advantage. Smart scheduling opens and closes your window coverings based on sun position and temperature throughout the day, adjusting continuously to optimize solar heat gain control for maximum efficiency.
Smart controls remove the burden of constantly deciding when to open or close your coverings, creating reliable energy savings even when you’re away from home. Smart home integration means your window coverings work harder to keep heat out without requiring you to constantly adjust them.
Getting Started With AERC-Certified Products
Ready to start shopping? Here’s your action plan:
- Use the certified product search tool to browse tested and rated options.
- Filter results by Warm Climate Rating to find top performers for hot weather conditions.
- Compare products within the same category since maximum ratings vary by type.
- Check for rebate programs through your utility company that may cover AERC-certified products.
- Review installation requirements to ensure proper performance once installed.
- Review common questions about ratings, installation, and product selection before making a final decision.
Smart Choices for Cooler, More Efficient Homes
Choosing window attachments with high Warm Climate Ratings is one of the most effective ways to reduce cooling costs and improve comfort in hot climates. The AERC label takes the guesswork out of shopping by providing transparent, third-party verified performance data.
Look for the AERC certification when shopping, compare products within the same category, and consider automation for maximum energy savings. Start your search today and find certified products that will help keep your home cooler and your energy bills lower all summer long.
About AERC
Our mission at AERC is to deliver standardized energy-performance ratings for window attachments, helping consumers make informed energy-efficient decisions.
We provide independent testing and certification for window attachment products through our comprehensive program developed with support from the U.S. Department of Energy.
AERC membership unites manufacturers, utilities, and industry professionals who work together to advance energy efficiency in buildings.
Ready to make smarter window choices? Explore our resources, learn how to read the AERC residential label or join our member network today.