New Data Shows that Fabric Awnings and Exterior Shades Can Help Homeowners Reduce Cooling Costs by More than 50%

Sweeping 50-city study proves awnings are a smart retrofit to reduce home energy consumption

ROSEVILLE, Minn., Aug. 16, 2012 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Everyone knows that awnings provide shade for homes. But record hot temperatures, rising energy costs and tighter household budgets are bringing to light the tangible role awnings can play in efforts to reduce energy expenses.

A new energy study funded by The Professional Awning Manufacturers Association (PAMA), shows that fabric awnings or external shades can save homeowners as much as $200 annually by reducing the load on air conditioners (depending on where a home is located). The study, released this week, calculates the impact of awnings in 50 cities across the United States.

"The significance of this type of energy savings extends beyond reduced home expenses," said Joe Huang, president of White Box Technology, who conducted the study. "When numerous homeowners in a community reduce their energy use, there is less demand for energy during peak usage, resulting in overall savings to utility companies and the public."

The study focused on older homes that are typically smaller and less insulated than newer construction. Resulting data supports awnings and solar shades as "smart" retrofits to help make older homes more energy efficient.

For example, the study showed that awnings on a home with single or double glazed windows in Pittsburgh, PA can reduce cooling energy 46-50% in a hot year compared to the same house without awnings. Correlating cost savings can range from $81 to $102. In a hot city like Phoenix, AZ the net savings was $193 in a typical year.

The study incorporated information about weather and energy costs, and included a number of variations (cities, shade designs and fabrics). The amount of cooling energy saved varies depending on the number of windows, type of glass in the windows, window orientation and regional climate.

Details on how the study was conducted, summary report and data for each of the 50 cities are available at http://www.awninginfo.com.

The Professional Awning Manufacturers Association (PAMA), a division of the Industrial Fabrics Association International (IFAI), is the only international trade association committed to the awning industry. PAMA membership is open to companies who are current members of IFAI and manufacture or sell awnings, as well as those who supply goods and services to the awning industry.

SOURCE Professional Awning Manufacturers Association