FAQ: VELUX Pleated Blinds FHL & Energy Blinds FHC (Expert Answers)
What is the difference between the VELUX FHL pleated blind and the VELUX FHC energy pleated blind?
FHL is a decorative blind with a single pleated fabric that diffuses light and provides privacy but does not offer full blackout. FHC features a double-pleated honeycomb cloth with an aluminum coating inside the honeycomb structure, creating air pockets between the fabric layers. This design provides better thermal insulation, significantly darker room conditions, and improved thermal comfort in the attic.
In short: FHL is primarily decorative, while FHC is both decorative and highly functional in terms of blackout and insulation.
Which VELUX pleated blind should I choose for an attic bedroom – decorative FHL or blackout energy FHC?
For an attic bedroom, FHC is usually the better choice, especially for VELUX roof windows facing south or west. It provides strong room darkening and improves thermal comfort, which is crucial during early sunrises and against street lighting at night. FHL might be a good option only if the bedroom also serves as a living room during the day and you do not require a typical blackout effect.
Are VELUX FHL/FHC pleated blinds suitable for a child's room – are they safe?
Yes, FHL and FHC pleated blinds are suitable for children's rooms because they do not have loose hanging cords or strings. They are operated using handles on the bars, and the side channels hold the fabric close to the glass. This minimizes the risk of entanglement. In children's rooms, FHC is chosen more often because it facilitates daytime naps and blocks light better at night.
How do I choose the size of VELUX FHL/FHC for a specific roof window, and can it be cut to size?
The size of VELUX blinds is selected based on the code from the window's nameplate, for example, GGL M04, GGL M06, GGU MK08, and similar. You just choose this code when ordering in the product configurator. Genuine VELUX blinds cannot be cut to size yourself – they are factory-fitted to the specific window type and size. Attempting to shorten the side channels or fabric yourself could damage the blind and void the guarantee.
Is the fabric of the VELUX FHL and FHC pleated blinds resistant to dust and moisture? How should I clean them?
The fabrics used in FHL and FHC are durable and relatively resistant to dust accumulation, but a slight deposit will appear over time. For cleaning, it is best to use a soft, dry, or slightly damp cloth, or a vacuum cleaner with a soft brush attachment set to low power. You should not soak the pleats under running water, wash them, or use strong detergents, as this can deform the folds or damage the honeycomb structure in the FHC model. In humid rooms like bathrooms, blinds can be used, but regular ventilation is necessary.
Which blind works better in an attic office – VELUX FHL or the energy blackout pleated blind FHC?
In an attic office, FHL is usually the better choice. Its translucent fabric diffuses light and reduces glare on monitors without making the room completely dark during the day. FHC makes sense if the office heats up significantly, is under a strongly sunlit roof, or if the same room occasionally serves as a bedroom and you also need strong blackout capabilities.
Can I install the VELUX FHL/FHC pleated blind myself, or should I use professional installation?
VELUX FHL and FHC pleated blinds are designed for self-installation thanks to the Pick&Click!® system. In new VELUX GGL and GGU roof windows, mounting brackets are factory-prepared, so installation usually involves clicking the cassette in and attaching the side channels. For a window at standard height, this typically takes about fifteen minutes. Professional installation is worth considering only if the windows are very high up, access is difficult, or you plan to install a large number of blinds at once.
Does the VELUX FHC energy blind really reduce heat in the attic more than a standard pleated blind?
Yes, FHC reduces heating more noticeably than a classic single pleated blind. This is due to the double honeycomb fabric with an aluminum coating, which creates an air layer between the glass and the interior. This additional insulation means the room heats up more slowly on hot days, and less heat escapes through the window in winter. However, the best thermal effect is achieved by combining FHC with an external awning.
Can VELUX FHL and FHC pleated blinds be combined with other VELUX products, like an external awning?
Yes, FHL and FHC pleated blinds are compatible with VELUX external awnings and roller shutters installed on the same GGL roof window. The awning or roller shutter operates on the outside of the sash, while the pleated blind moves in side channels on the inside. This combination allows you to simultaneously limit heat from the sun outside and aesthetically control light and privacy inside the room.
Can the VELUX pleated blind be stopped anywhere on the window, and does it hold well? Does it restrict window cleaning?
The VELUX pleated blind is a "flying" blind, meaning it can be positioned virtually anywhere between the top and bottom of the glass. The bars run in side channels that hold the fabric stably against the frame. With correct installation, the blind does not drop on its own and withstands daily use well. Installing the blind does not block the ability to rotate the sash for cleaning from the outside – the roof window can still be rotated to the cleaning position. Just be careful not to soak the fabric excessively or spray it with strong cleaning agents while washing the glass.