If you’re tired of paying too much for cooling costs during the summer, there are some tips you can follow to keep your home cool and comfortable. Windows with low air leakage will help you save money on cooling costs by keeping the heat outside while cool air stays inside. You can also install low-E coatings on your windows to increase their energy efficiency. The following are just a few of the many tips for windows energy efficiency during the summer heat.
Reduce solar heat gain with window treatments
One of the best ways to combat solar heat gain is to install energy-saving window treatments. Drapes, for instance, have pleats and folds that disperse the heat from the sun, keeping the interior of the room at a comfortable temperature. Mirrored window film can also be a good option. While they aren’t as effective as cellular shades, they still help reduce solar heat gain.
Energy-efficient window treatments are the most effective way to reduce the amount of heat loss. They work by trapping air between the window and the treatment. If possible, choose window treatments that have an R-value of five or higher. An R-value of five or more indicates better insulation. In addition, windows facing south should be kept open during the day and closed at night to reduce solar heat gain. By choosing window treatments that reduce solar heat gain, you’ll be reducing your energy bill as well as minimizing the need for electrical lighting.
Replace old windows with energy-efficient versions
While replacing old windows is not the cheapest option, it can save you money in the long run. Old windows are not as energy-efficient as newer ones, and you may be wasting energy and money while trying to cool your home. Energy-efficient windows are double or triple-paned and designed to reflect solar radiation. Even if you don’t want to replace your entire home’s windows, replacing your old ones will increase the efficiency of your building.
If you’re considering replacing your old windows, you’ll want to make sure you get a high-quality energy-efficient option. These windows are made with multiple panes and are usually insulated. In addition, they are also made with argon gas fills that reduce heat transfer. Low-emissivity glass will prevent hot air from reaching the inside of the building. Double-paned windows can help reduce your heating costs, too.
While replacing old windows with energy-efficient ones won’t save money in the long run, they can cut down on utility costs and extend the life of your energy system. Older windows are also more likely to break when hit, but newer windows are made with a polyvinyl butyral layer between the glass and frame. This layer prevents dangerous fragments of glass from breaking in your home.
Install low-E coatings on windows
During the summer, heat can be an annoyance in your house. It is a fact that 30% of heat loss occurs through windows and doors. Low-E glass, on the other hand, can prevent heat from entering your house by reflecting heat. This modern invention has made it possible to reduce heat loss and increase energy efficiency, as it alters the way window glass transfers heat.
Low-e films were introduced for windows in the late 1970s to enhance energy efficiency. They can also reflect the sun’s heat during winter. The best way to choose window films is to consider the temperature zone in which your home is located. Low-e films will help reduce solar heat gain during the summer while increasing thermal comfort in the winter. To protect your interior furnishings and artwork, consider purchasing window films with a low-e coating.
Low-E coatings are applied to the outer pane of windows, while the inner pane is coated with a special film. These low-emissivity coatings are more expensive than those without, but they will pay for themselves in the long run. Moreover, you can install low-E coatings on existing windows at lower costs than replacement windows.
The most important benefit of Low-E coatings is their durability. Unlike traditional tinted windows, Low-E coatings do not fade and will prevent any damage to your windows or home. They will reduce heat loss by 50% or more. And as a bonus, you will protect your household items from fading. This coating is a one-time expense that will pay for itself in energy savings over the life of the windows. It is important to note that many people assume that Low-E glass windows are the same as tinted windows.
Conclusion
To learn more about how Better Homes & Windows can help improve your home (from top to bottom!) give us a call at 615-469-5566. We can help increase the efficiency of your home using many different and proven methods that are guaranteed to increase your quality of life.