HINTS FOR HOMEOWNERS Shades Of Savings

(NAPSI)-Redecorating is taking on a whole new meaning now that homeowners are learning that, in doing so, they may be able to decrease their taxes while also saving energy and lowering utility bills. Under the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009, consumers may qualify for up to $1,500 in federal tax credits when purchasing certain energy-efficient products. More good news for the style conscious: For the first time, highly insulating window shades have been qualified for the tax credit. Called Duette® Architella® honeycomb shades, they are the first and only window shades without add-on insulation systems to qualify for this credit. "Uncovered windows can literally be energy holes. Up to half the money you spend heating and cooling your home can be lost through them," said Wendell Colson, senior vice president of research and development for Hunter Douglas. "We specifically designed these award-winning shades-our most energy-efficient product and the fastest-growing innovation in its category-to address this problem. They take the air-trapping cellular structure of our original honeycomb shade and make it even more energy efficient by placing a cell within a cell. They can more than double the energy efficiency of a window." The exclusive patented cell-within-a-cell design forms more air pockets than traditional cellular shades. This means that the shades can reduce the heat escaping and entering a home through the windows by up to 50 percent. Based on calculations verified by the Rocky Mountain Institute, Duette Architella shades, when properly installed, can save up to $60 per average-sized window annually in energy costs as well as approximately 10 percent of an average household's carbon footprint. Of course, estimates will vary by region. With its 180 color and design choices, Duette Architella shades offer an extensive design palette for home interiors. Also available, a variety of lifting systems designed with child safety in mind. For more information, call (800) 274-2985 or go online to www.hunterdouglas.com/taxcredit. It's also a good idea to consult a tax adviser on eligibility.

Shades of savings: Attractive insulating window shades can help you save money, energy and tax dollars. Word Count: 433 Copy/Paste HTML Article