Do Energy Efficient Windows Work?
The cost of living is rising and cutting down on your bills is essential if you want to stay in control of your monthly outgoings. Committing to a home enhancement project that saves you money long-term and meets your requirements is undoubtedly a good idea?
A few simple changes to your home each summer in Vancouver can reduce your energy bills. You are more likely to open them up when the weather warms up by using energy-efficient windows. It, in turn, lessens the need for air conditioning during the summer months. Read on to learn if energy-efficient windows do work.
What to Consider When Buying Energy-Efficient Windows
When shopping for new energy-efficient windows, there are many factors to consider. You’ll want to know about the different types of glass panes, the frames and energy star rating, and how much insulation is in the window.
Look for the Energy Star Rating. Energy Star Certification is a program that identifies and promotes energy-efficient products. When you look at windows, seek out those that have earned the Energy Star seal of approval. These are the best options for your money because they keep your home warmer in the winter and cooler in the summer.
Consider the U factor of a window that measures its thermal insulation. The lower the U factor, the better the thermal insulation of your windows will be.
Glass panes: Glass panes are one of the most critical factors in determining how much energy your windows will use and whether they will be energy efficient or not. Three types of glass panes can be used in windows: double-glazed units, triple-glazed units, and quadruple-glazed units. The more layers of glass that are used in a window unit, the better it is at keeping heat trapped inside during the winter months and out during summer months (or vice versa).
Frames: The frame is another essential factor when purchasing energy-efficient windows. It determines what weather stripping needs to go around them to seal them properly against drafts and moisture from outside elements. For instance, if you live where there is a lot of snowfall during certain seasons, you might want something like vinyl siding instead of wood siding around your window frames so that there isn’t any moisture buildup.
What Factors Make a Window Energy-Efficient?
The first factor is the gas filling the space between the glass panes; the gas can be argon, krypton, or xenon. Argon is used most often in residential homes; it has a low thermal conductivity and helps keep heat in during winter and summer. Krypton and xenon have even lower thermal conductivities than argon but are not as commonly used in residential homes due to their high cost.
Another critical factor is the U-value of the window glass. The U-value measures how well heat is retained or released from an insulating material. The lower the U-value, the better it insulates against heat loss or gains through radiation (heat). Most windows have a U-value between 0.15 – 0.30 W/(m²K).
What Is the Advantage of Energy Efficient Windows?
Energy-efficient windows are known for their ability to help you save money on your utility bills. However, there are other benefits to installing energy-efficient windows in your home.
They’re easy to maintain: You don’t have to worry about cleaning your windows as often because they require less maintenance and cleaning products. It means you will spend more time enjoying your new windows!
They’re environmentally safe: The materials used in energy-efficient windows are non-toxic and eco-friendly so that they won’t harm the environment or your family. They will last longer than traditional window materials without sacrificing quality or performance!
Energy-efficient windows reduce your monthly energy costs. You’re missing out on many savings if you don’t have them.
Energy-efficient windows reduce your carbon footprint and improve your home’s air quality. Many people don’t think about how much energy they spend on their windows until it’s too late. Their bills are sky high, and they can do nothing about it except pay them every month.
Getting a new energy-efficient window right away is recommended if you haven’t already done so. They will help cut down on your monthly expenses, but they will also keep your home comfortable year-round, no matter what time of year it is outside!
Windows certified as energy-efficient may very well be the best investment you make toward saving energy, though you should also note that there are other benefits; windows with a low U-factor allow more natural light in and are also significantly better at keeping your home cool. The downside is that there are more expensive than less efficient options, but it’s a worthy investment if you’re trying to cut back on your energy usage.
