GuideDiode Trading EST · 4 min read

Strip Curtain Energy Saving in Cold Stores and Chillers

08 November, 2026 | Admin

Strip curtain energy saving comes from one simple effect: less cold air escapes and less warm air gets in every time a cold-store door is open. In Saudi Arabia, where outside air is hot and humid for much of the year, that difference is large. This guide explains where the saving comes from, what affects it and how to get the best result.

strip curtain energy saving at a cold store door with polar PVC strips

We do not promise a fixed percentage, because every site is different. The real saving depends on how often the door opens, how long it stays open and how well the curtain is specified and maintained.

Table of Contents

Where the energy goes

When a cold-room door opens, cold air flows out at the bottom and warm, moist air flows in at the top. The refrigeration system must then remove that heat and moisture. Each extra minute of open door adds load to the compressor, increases frost on the evaporator and warms the product near the door.

How a strip curtain helps

A curtain of overlapping strips hangs across the opening. When the door is open, the strips act as a physical barrier that slows the exchange of air. People and vehicles push through and the strips spring back to close the gap straight away, so the opening is only open for the moment of passage.

What affects the saving

Several factors decide the result: the temperature difference between inside and outside, how often and how long the door is open, the strip width, thickness and overlap, and the condition of the strips. A curtain with too little overlap or torn strips leaks air and wastes much of the benefit.

Specifying for the best result

Use a polar grade for low temperatures and an overlap of about 50 percent for chillers and freezers. Choose strips wide enough to cover the opening. See our guide to cold room strip curtains and the thickness and width chart for sizes.

Other benefits

Besides saving energy, a curtain helps to keep the temperature steady near the door, reduces frost and ice at the entrance, cuts dust and noise and improves comfort for staff. Fewer temperature swings also protect the quality of chilled and frozen products.

Keeping the saving over time

Inspect the curtain regularly. Replace cracked or short strips, keep the rail secure and keep the strips clear of ice. Train staff to drive through the curtain at a steady pace instead of holding it open. A well-kept curtain keeps working for years.

Compare with other options

A strip curtain is often the best value compared with air curtains and rapid roll doors. Read our comparison of strip curtain vs air curtain vs rapid roll door to see which suits your site.

Specify and order with confidence

To get an accurate quote, send us the opening width and height, the temperature range, the type of traffic and the quantity. We will confirm the strip type, thickness, width and overlap, and supply the rail, clamps and fittings with it. Our main product groups are normally in stock at our Dammam warehouse with dispatch in one to three working days, and we can deliver across Saudi Arabia and the GCC. A Material Test Certificate is available with every order. Download the full PVC Strip Curtains Catalogue to see all types, or contact us at sales@diode.sa or +966 51 083 8213.

Frequently asked questions

How much energy will I save?

It depends on the door use and temperature difference. A well-specified curtain reduces cold-air loss, but we do not quote a fixed percentage.

Do I still need a door?

Many sites use both: a curtain for daytime traffic and a door that closes at night.

Which strips should I use?

Use polar strips with about 50 percent overlap for chillers and freezers, and confirm your temperature with us.

This guide on strip curtain energy saving is a starting point. For more help with strip curtain energy saving, send us your door size, temperature and traffic and we will recommend the right specification. Background reading: strip curtains on Wikipedia.

Download: PVC Strip Curtains Catalogue 2026 (PDF) · Product range: PVC strip curtains in Saudi Arabia · Request a quote

Strip curtain energy saving: Summary

The right choice for strip curtain energy saving depends on your site, material and order size. Diode Trading EST supports strip curtain energy saving projects across Saudi Arabia, so send us your requirements for a quote. Ask our team to review your strip curtain energy saving requirements before you order. For more detail on strip curtain energy saving, contact Diode Trading EST. We can also advise on strip curtain energy saving specifications and delivery. Ask our team to review your strip curtain energy saving requirements before you order.

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