Save Money On The Right Windows

The average household spends $2,200 a year on energy bills. Half of that cost goes towards heating and cooling. In a time when more people are budget conscious, any means of saving money and increasing your home’s value is welcomed. Replacing the windows in your home can save you between 5 and 24 percent on your energy bills.

Selection

When choosing replacements for your home, be sure to take into consideration what climate you are located within. A home in Arizona will not need the same type as a home in Minnesota. Extra layers of glass beyond two is not needed in all areas.

Look for certification such as Energy Star which are produced by approved manufacturers, or product lines certified by the National Fenestration Rating Council (NFRC). The NFRC conducts tests independently for heat loss and air leakage.

If you are building a house, consider reducing the amount of window space.

Repairing

Not all windows need to be replaced in order to save money on your energy bills. If the window is still in decent condition and double or triple paned, check for air leaks around the edges and provide caulking. Replace weatherstripping if it appears to be worn out. Add extra insulation in the frame if needed.

What To Look For

Simply replacing them will not necessarily save you money on your energy bills. How they are made makes all the difference. Wood, vinyl, and fiberglass are the best while aluminum frames tend to be inefficient. Vinyl and fiberglass are also desirable because they can be filled with insulation. Low-emissivity (low-e) coatings on the panes of glass keep heat from entering the home. The coatings also block out ultraviolet light in turn protecting valuables, curtains, and wood floors from fading.

Newer double panes with argon gas between the panes reduce the amount of heat transfer from outside to inside. Argon has a higher density and therefore, protects better than plain air.

Installation

Unless you have a handle on construction and installation, it is advised to hire a professional installer. They need to fit tightly in order for them to perform efficiently. If they are not properly installed large air gaps will occur around the edges.
Sunlight shining through your home’s can increase the air conditioner’s usage by 30 percent. Cut that amount by using curtains or blinds. Trees, awnings, and shutters can also improve energy bills by blocking sunlight and wind. Ensure that your windows are also fitted with weatherstripping in good condition to prevent extra air leakage.

Buying proper windows that meet certification can keep your home more consistent and comfortable while saving you up to $500 a year. While the savings on your energy bill can add up, they are not solely responsible for energy loss. Other factors in your home including insulation, roofing, foundation, and siding play a role in how much your overall energy bills will be. Making your home energy efficient not only saves you money but adds value to your home.

Attached Images:

•  License: Royalty Free or iStock source: depositphotos.com

This post is brought to you by Jamie Anderson, a home builder for 20 years. When it comes to finding the perfect windows and doors for a great price, he recommends Beverley Hills Home Improvements 5775 Atlantic Drive #11 Mississauga, ON L4W 4P3‎ www.beverleyhillshome.com. They provide a wide selection of windows and doors Markham and exterior doors in the area.