Energy savings with automated Lutron shades
by TechSavvyHomeowner• 7 replies• 28520 views
I've had my Lutron Serena shades installed for about 8 months now, and I wanted to share some real-world energy savings data since I know a lot of people ask about ROI on automated shades.
My setup: 12 Serena shades on the south and west facing windows of my home, integrated with RadioRA 3. I created automations based on sun position, outside temperature, and time of day. In summer, the shades automatically close when direct sun hits each window and the outside temp exceeds 75°F. In winter, they open during sunny periods to capture passive solar heat.
Comparing my utility bills year-over-year (same occupancy patterns, similar weather), I'm seeing roughly 15-18% reduction in HVAC costs during summer months. Winter savings are harder to quantify but my heating system definitely cycles less on sunny days.
The shades cost me around $8,500 installed. At current energy prices, I'm saving approximately $45-60 per month during peak cooling season and maybe $20-30 during heating season. Obviously not a quick payback, but combined with the convenience, light control, and furniture/floor protection from UV, I'm really happy with the investment.
Anyone else tracking their energy savings with automated shades? I'm curious if others are seeing similar results or if different climates/window orientations change the equation significantly.
Replies
ShadeControlExpert41882 hours ago
This is exactly the kind of real-world data people need to see. A few things that can maximize your savings even further:
1. Make sure you're using the Lutron sun tracking features properly - it accounts for your exact GPS coordinates and calculates sun angles throughout the year
2. Consider adding a temperature sensor on your windows to trigger shades based on actual glass temp, not just outside air temp
3. If you have any skylights, those are energy vampires - automated shades there will give you the best ROI per shade
4. Don't forget to factor in the reduced UV damage to flooring and furniture - that's real money saved over time
I typically tell clients to expect 3-5 year payback in hot climates, 6-8 years in moderate climates when factoring everything in.
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LutronFanatic42098 hours ago
Great data! I'm in Arizona and my savings are even more dramatic - closer to 25% reduction in cooling costs during summer. The key is really the sun-tracking automation. Manual shades just don't get adjusted frequently enough to make a real difference.
Control4Enthusiast41762 hours ago
I integrated my Lutron shades with Control4 and added occupancy sensing to the mix. Shades only do the full automation routine when someone's actually home. Saves a bit more since the HVAC isn't fighting as hard when we're away anyway.
DIYSmartHome41522 hours ago
15-18% is impressive! I only have 4 shades on my west-facing windows and I'm seeing maybe 8-10% savings. Makes sense that more coverage equals more savings.
HighEndIntegrator41450 hours ago
As someone who installs these systems professionally, your numbers align with what we typically see. The clients who get the best ROI are those in climates with significant cooling loads and lots of direct sun exposure. One thing worth mentioning - dual roller shades with both a solar screen and blackout option can be even more effective since you can use the solar screen to reduce heat gain while still maintaining some view and natural light.
Ra2SelectUser41402 hours ago
Thanks for posting actual numbers! I've been on the fence about adding more shades to my RA2 Select system. This helps justify the expense to my wife lol.
TechSavvyHomeowner40826 hours ago
Great tips everyone! @ShadeControlExpert - I hadn't thought about adding a window glass temperature sensor. What would you recommend for that? And yeah, the UV protection is definitely a factor I should have emphasized more. My hardwood floors in the living room used to fade noticeably near the windows.
