Making Your Existing Windows More Energy Efficient
By far the best way to improve energy conservation in your home when it comes to windows is to buy new energy saving ones. This is especially true if you live in an older home. Of course, the reality is we all live on a budget and installing new energy saving windows is a great way to blow that budget right out of the water.
So here is some advice on how to make your existing windows more energy efficient:
Install Storm Windows
Generally speaking, interior storm windows are best because they are easy to access, and glass will last longer than plastic. However, plastic or Plexiglas windows are much cheaper, lighter, and more durable. If you have exterior storm windows, try to use vinyl or wood frames. Even though aluminum frames are sturdy and lightweight, they conduct heat and cool very easily, reducing your energy efficiency.
Caulk and Weatherstrip Your Window Frames
Consult with your local hardware store for the best caulk and weatherstripping types for your situation. In general, apply caulk and weatherstripping to clean, dry surfaces. Reducing air flow is the idea here and in general it is a good practice throughout your house to improve energy conservation; however, too much of a good thing is also possible. Use ceiling fans and other air circulation methods to ensure proper ventilation.
Use Window Coverings
Window coverings can help reduce heat gain and/or loss. Some examples of great things to use to reduce heat gain are awnings, high-reflective films, and overhangs. These features reduce the sunlight coming through your home’s windows and, therefore, make your house cooler and are an easy way to improve energy efficiency.
A high-reflective film can be purchased at most hardware stores and is applied directly to the glass of the window, effectively tinting it. Awnings are widely available and serve as a retractable outdoor curtain to shade your windows and reduce solar heat. Awnings are good to use if you want shade in summer and solar heat in winter since they are much easier to adjust than the reflective film.
Overhangs are built into your house at the time of construction and reduce solar heat gain by shading windows. If you are in an older home with no overhangs, consider using an awning or reflective film instead.
To reduce heat loss through your windows, use blinds, drapes or shutters. When using these, especially at night during the winter, you can save up to 10 percent of the energy loss in your home. These features can also be used to reduce heat gain in areas with very hot seasons.
Buy New Energy Saving Windows
By far your best option is to purchase new energy saving windows. Make sure you purchase the window with the proper amount of reflectivity for your region. For example, if you live in an area with a long, hot summer, you want a window with a very low solar heat gain coefficient (”SHGC”) to help reduce your cooling costs. If you live in an area with a long, cold winter, you want a window with a higher SHGC to help heat your home during cold days. If you are going to spend the money to buy new windows, it is a good idea to have those windows professionally installed to ensure they are properly framed and sealed tightly.
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