Is your house feeling drafty, or is your heating bill too high? Your windows might be the reason. Between 12 and 30 percent of your annual home heating costs go right out the window as lost heat, but you can stop this energy drain with a few simple changes. Keep your home cozier and your bills lower with these four ways to improve window efficiency for increased home energy retention.
Hang Insulated Window Coverings
You don’t have to spend a lot of money to make your windows more efficient. Just pick up a set of insulated drapes or blinds to help stop drafts and prevent your windows from leaching heat. Insulated window coverings keep you cool in the summer too by blocking heat from outside. Many insulated window coverings also block out light to darken the room when you need an afternoon nap.
Install Efficient Glass
Does your home have old-fashioned single-paned glass windows? It’s time to think about an energy saving upgrade. New window installation is an investment that can pay off not only on your energy bills but also in your home’s value. Double-glazed windows, composed of two glass panes separated by an insulating layer of air, are the most efficient type on the market. If you don’t want a complete replacement, you can add an extra pane of glass to your existing single-paned windows, which is a great option for historical homes.
Add Window Film
If your budget doesn’t allow for new window panes, window film provides an easy and affordable solution that you can install yourself. Choose a thick, insulated film for the best efficiency improvement. Tinted solar control film also blocks out light and ultraviolet rays to reduce heat loss and protect your skin and eyes from the sun at the same time.
Upgrade Window Frames
Your window glass might be efficient, but what about the frames? Window frames deteriorate over time and can allow a significant amount of heat to escape, so replace them with new, efficient frames. Look for windows that carry a Window Energy Rating Scheme, or WERS label. Frames with a WERS score of 5 are the most efficient on the market.
After upgrading your windows, don’t forget to look for other sources of wasted energy around your home. Small changes like using power strips for appliances, putting draft stoppers under doors and turning lights off when you leave a room can add up to significant savings on your utility bills.
