Ah windows, a homes connection to the outside world. The joys that they bring homeowners as they allow for sun to shine through, brightening up the interior of our homes, allowing us to enjoy the wonders of the outdoors while sitting in the comfortable climate-controlled interiors of our homes.
However, if you are not careful in both your choice and maintanece of your home's windows they could be creating a gateway to not only the outside world, but your wallet! Windows while highly desirable by homeowners can cause major heat loss in the winter and heat gain in the summer. In the U.S., the energy required to offset these temperature losses and gains in homes and buildings accounts for about 1/4 of all heating/cooling energy costs.
So what does this mean for you as a current or potential home owner?
You better be maintaining your existing windows and or considering an upgrade to energy efficient windows. At first glance it may seem that new windows may be an unnecessary or excessive expense, but new energy star windows are about 2 times as effective as non-energy star windows and can save up to 15% off of your energy bills.
image courtesy of www.energystar.gov
Simple low cost ways to ensure your windows aren't wasting excessive energy
- Thoroughly inspect both the inside and outside of your home for cracks- seal all cracks and openings with a window sealant. Consumers guide to caulking (http://apps1.eere.energy.gov/consumer/your_home/insulation_airsealing/index.cfm/mytopic=11270)
- Perform the paper test- open each window and place a sheet of paper on the window sill and close the window. If you can pull the sheet of paper out then you may need a weather sealing device such as stripping or taping. (Guide to weather stripping http://apps1.eere.energy.gov/consumer/your_home/insulation_airsealing/index.cfm/mytopic=11280 cost The costs of these simple remedies will be well saved in energy costs.
- Have an energy audit done to detect all of your homes leaks.
- Consider using decorative window coverings- installing window treaments such as blinds, shutters, and curtains can not only add a style to your home, but if carefully selected can actually help you save energy (consumers guide to window coverings http://apps1.eere.energy.gov/consumer/your_home/windows_doors_skylights/index.cfm/mytopic=13500)
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