Homeowners who want to reduce their energy costs may have it made in the shade.

Experts say that space heating and cooling is typically the largest electricity expense for a homeowner. Whether it's the hottest month of the summer or the coldest month of the winter, homeowners spend a considerable amount of money each month paying for electricity.

Fortunately, reducing your energy bill may be as simple as installing new window coverings. Some say cellular shades, in particular, can substantially cut energy costs. Following are some tips from Levolor Window Fashions about what to look for when choosing cellular shades that will help cut heating and cooling costs:

? Choose your shades carefully. Cellular shades add insulation and can increase the total R-value of a window-the term used to measure a window's resistance to airflow. The higher the R-value, the more effective the window is at reducing cooling and heating costs for the entire window unit, including the frame.

? Levolor cellular shades come in single- or double-celled shades. The more cells you have, the better your insulation and ability to block glare. The honeycomb pockets of the shades trap air within them and thus increase a window's R-value.

? Think about size. The bigger your window is, the larger your cell size should be. Larger cells have more static air and act as a better barrier for energy efficiency.

? Learn the R-value of your blinds and shades. Ask a salesperson about specific fabric R-values. Levolor custom cellular shades are said to have a high R-value rating on multiple cellular shade fabrics.

In addition to the great insulation features of cellular shades, these shades also come in numerous patterns, colors, operations or functions to meet everyone's home d'cor needs.

For example, Levolor Window Fashions recently launched an updated line of custom cellular shades with even more colors and patterns for homeowners.