How to Use Curtains to Reduce Energy Bills: Practical Tips for Bali Homes

Curtains may help reduce energy use when they limit unwanted solar heat or heat transfer through a window, but results depend on glazing, fabric, fit, orientation and how the room is operated. No curtain guarantees a specific reduction in electricity bills.

1. Identify when the window adds heat

Observe which windows receive direct sun and at what time. In Bali, large glazed openings and afternoon sun can increase glare and cooling demand, but the effect varies by orientation, external shading, glass type and room layout. Start with the rooms that become uncomfortable or require the most air-conditioning.

2. Close curtains before peak sun

Closing a suitable curtain before direct sunlight heats a room may reduce solar gains. If daylight is needed, a sheer can soften glare, but its effect on heat depends on the product. Where practical, external shading can stop sunlight before it reaches the glass and may be more effective than an interior curtain alone.

3. Choose the right treatment

• Sheers: diffuse daylight but should not be assumed to provide strong thermal insulation.
• Dimout or lined curtains: may provide more coverage; performance varies by construction.
• Blackout curtains: block light through the fabric, but blackout does not automatically mean high thermal performance.
• Layered systems: allow different levels of light and coverage throughout the day.

Ask for product-specific performance information if energy efficiency is a priority. Fabric colour alone cannot predict savings, and installation gaps can affect results.

4. Improve coverage and fit

Plan enough width and drop to cover the intended glass area. Check the top, sides and bottom for significant gaps while preserving door and handle access. A track extending beyond the frame can allow panels to stack clear of the glass when open, if space permits. For wide openings, plan stack-back so the treatment is convenient to use every day.

5. Coordinate curtains with air-conditioning

Close curtains during the hottest periods if they reduce unwanted solar heat, then open them when daylight and outdoor conditions make it useful. Use air-conditioning according to the equipment’s instructions and occupants’ needs. Do not block air outlets or intakes, and maintain appropriate ventilation.

6. Check whether the change helps

Compare comfort and energy use over similar periods, accounting for weather, occupancy and air-conditioning settings. Record operating hours and electricity consumption where possible. Avoid promising a fixed percentage saving without measurements from the actual property.

Common mistakes

• Assuming blackout automatically means thermal insulation.
• Waiting until the room is hot before managing direct sun.
• Leaving large gaps around the window.
• Choosing a treatment that is difficult to operate daily.
• Ignoring external shading, glazing and air-conditioning maintenance.

FAQs

Can curtains lower electricity bills?

They may help in some rooms by reducing solar heat gains or heat transfer, but savings vary and should not be guaranteed without measurements.

Are blackout curtains more energy-efficient than sheers?

Not automatically. Blackout describes light blocking; thermal performance depends on the full product and installation.

Should curtains stay closed all day in Bali?

Not necessarily. Use them based on sun exposure, glare, privacy and comfort, then open them when conditions are favourable.

Explore our curtains for hot climates guide, compare blackout and sunscreen roller blinds, and review the window treatments guide for tropical properties.