As our society becomes increasingly aware of green lifestyle options, such as energy efficient appliances, studies performed by a range of organizations indicate that retractable awnings help reduce a home's overall energy consumption. 

For instance, awnings can reduce air conditioning costs by as much as 25% according to the Professional Awning Manufacturers Association. Also, the American Society of Heating and Air Conditioning maintains that fabric awnings can reduce interior heat gain up to 77%.  Finally, the Department of Energy publication, Cooling Your Home, notes that awnings block up to 90% of solar heat that is absorbed through windows. 

A 2007 study conducted by the Center for Sustainable Building Research at the University of Minnesota concluded that "awnings result in cooling energy savings by reducing direct solar gain through windows." The study compared the energy efficiency of homes with awnings and homes without awnings in 12 cities across the United States.

In cooler climates, the study revealed that homes with window awnings saved an average of 23% on cooling energy costs per year.  In warmer climates, the study showed that homes with window awnings saved an average of 14-20% on cooling energy costs per year.

The study also discovered that homeowners with retractable awnings achieve the lowest energy use by retracting the awnings in winter months and extending them during warmer months.

For more information regarding the energy efficiency of retractable awnings, refer to these websites:

http://www.awninginfo.com/

http://www.energy.gov/insulationairsealing.htm

http://www.ashrae.org/publications/detail/15405

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Since 1981, Sunesta Shade Systems has led the American retractable awning industry in technological advances.  We are dedicated to continuing this tradition of engineering excellence in all our products; every component, feature and option is designed with a focus on innovation. For more information about Sunesta Shade Systems, please call 904.268.8000.