With energy costs and environmental concerns on the rise, who isn’t looking for a way to reduce consumption and live more efficiently? There are many ways to cut down on energy consumption and the first place to look is in your home.
People use the most energy in their homes on the hottest days of summer and the coldest nights of winter. To compensate for the extreme temperatures outside we crank up the heat or air-conditioning to try to stay comfortable. Unfortunately, your heater or air-conditioner could be working a lot harder than it needs to and that means your money and comfort are going right out the window. The good news is, there is a simple solution that can save you both.
Your windows can save you money
Energy Star windows are more efficient, less costly and can improve the comfort of your home by helping to regulate temperature, humidity, and outside noise. Homeowners that replace all their windows and doors with Energy Star windows and triple glazed windows will save up to 7% on their energy bill.
New homebuyers who install all energy-efficient windows and doors will save up to 16% over those who choose standard quality products. The savings have the potential to be greater because new homes are typically larger, with more windows.
Windows don’t last forever
If your windows are 25 years-old, or older, it is time to replace them. Window glass, installation and sealant technology has vastly improved in the past two decades. Chances are, even if top quality windows were installed that long ago they will have greatly deteriorated in effectiveness by now.
Your windows infrastructure is depreciating. If your window sashes, frames or weatherstripping is showing signs of weakness or disintegration beyond simple repair, your windows are not performing properly and need to be replaced. An obvious signs of this kind of damage are crumbled stripping and caulking, rotted frames and fog or condensation on or between window panes.
Increase comfort and regulate temperature
Homes with Energy Star windows are more air-tight using technology such as low-emissivity glass and inert gas between window panes. Triple glazed windows will eliminate drafts, making it easier for you to regulate the temperature in your house. Your home will stay cooler in the summer and warmer and more humid in the winter. Providing a better seal and protection from cold outside temperatures will reduce condensation common on older, lower quality windows. Reducing condensation not only improves comfort and appearance, but also reduces the risk of mold build-up.
Reduce noise from outside the home
A stronger seal and better designed hardware will help insulate your home from outside noise, especially important in the bedrooms.
We all want to do the best we can when it comes to energy reduction and cost-efficiency. Replacing your glass products with Energy Star, triple-glazed windows and doors is a simple way to invest in your home’s comfort, appearance and economical value.