Nothing quite makes a room the way windows do. Combining style with functionality, windows add character and brighten rooms. However, if they’re not energy efficient windows, they can let in more than just sunlight. We’re talking drafts in winter, excessive heat in summer…all of which leads to uncomfortable rooms and higher energy costs.
Energy efficient windows can make all the difference as to whether your home is costing you money or saving you money…not to mention improving home comfort! Making your windows more energy efficient takes just a little effort and creativity to reduce the amount of heat your home absorbs or loses depending on the season.
The first thing you need to do is to make sure your windows are properly sealed using weather stripping and caulking to plug any hole or openings that may allow an air exchange with the outdoors.
Once you’ve got that taken care of, it’s time to look at your window treatments. This is an opportunity to not only enhance the look of your home, but also create energy efficient windows that will help reduce your monthly utility costs. Here are a few tips that will help reduce heat loss or gain around your windows.
- Awnings: Adding an awning over a window or even the entire side of a house will reduce the amount of direct sunlight entering a home and can decrease solar heat gain in the summer by up to 77%.
- Draperies: They’ve always been available as window coverings, however, the way you use them is important to control heat. On summer days, keep the drapes closed on windows that are receiving direct sunlight. This will help prevent unwanted heat gain.
- Shades: When properly installed, interior shades are one of the least expensive and simplest methods for saving energy. They are highly effective at reducing the amount of solar heat gain and are an attractive window treatment.
- Storm windows: A storm window added to a single pane window can reduce winter heat loss by as much as 50 per cent. They cost less than a replacement window and are easier to install while being very effective.
- Shutters: These can be either interior or exterior additions. They require a little elbow grease to install but in addition to providing excellent coverage, they also provide added security to your home.
Reducing the amount of heat loss or gain around your windows is one of the easiest ways to help reduce your energy costs.
By taking a few simple steps and ensuring you have energy efficient windows, you can already begin to reduce your monthly energy bills and at the same time enhance the look of your home. Contact a certified RESNET auditor or rater who will give you an honest appraisal of how to turn your windows into energy efficient windows?