How to Choose Energy Efficient Windows?
21.8% of energy used in the US by household is Your home can be made more energy efficient to reduce your energy bill by up to 30%. You can increase your home’s energy efficiency by installing energy-efficient window. Windows account for 30% in residential energy usage .
You can improve your home’s appearance and also save energy by replacing windows. You have to make decisions on what type of frame and glass you want to use. This will help promote green living. Here are three ways to make your windows more energy efficient.
Choose frames that are energy-efficient for your Windows
Frames can have an effect on the thermal resistance of your windows and therefore their energy efficiency.
- Aluminum Frames
Aluminum frames are known for their durability as well as low maintenance. They are not very energy-efficient. They are poor insulation. To reduce heat flow you can put a thermal break on them. It is possible to place a material both inside and out of the frame.
- Fiberglass
The fiberglass frame you use for your windows will prevent your home’s heating from rising. 87% Heat in your house comes through your windows. Fiberglass can be insulated by air cavities. A fiberglass frame can help you regulate the heat that is lost and gained in your house.
- Vinyl
Vinyl frames have UV stabilizers that make them good insulators. They are foam-enhanced and have spacers at the warm edges, which increase their insulation properties.
Wood frames are also more energy efficient. However, they are not the best option for those who are looking to maintain low-maintenance frames.
Energy-Efficient Windows: Glass
Glass is not only for frames but also affects the energy-efficiency of your home. Different glass technologies can be used to improve their insulation. Here are some glass options to promote green living.
- Insulated Glass
These windows are made from multiple panes. They are usually made up of two panes. They are usually two panes spaced apart and made airtight. This insulation leaves the airspace insulated. By doing this, the glass can conduct less heat. This technology decreases the solar radiation permitted through a glass.
- Glass
To improve the energy efficiency of windows, argon gas is blown through them. This gas can be blown into three panes or glass which are hermetically sealed. This gas reduces heat transmission through your windows. This technology has many advantages. It increases your windows’ thermal transmittance, reduces heat transfer through the windows, and stops condensation and freezing.
Gas in windows can make them soundproof and durable by preventing corrosion.
- Low -E Glass
You can increase your home’s energy efficiency by using low-E windows. Low emissivity reduces the UV light and radiation that enters your glass. Low-E glasses are made with a thin coating of heat reflecting glass. This ensures that your home’s temperature remains constant. There are several types of low E glasses, each suitable for different climates.
Lard coat low-E glasses would be an ideal choice if you live somewhere with cold climates. It lets some heat energy in your house to help keep it warm. The glass’s thin coating reflects heat into your house.
There is also the soft-coated low-E glass option, which is more suitable for homes located in cold to hot climates. It is distinguished by its high U value and ultraviolet protection. The soft coat helps prevent heat from escaping your home by reflecting it inside.
Treatment to Make Your Windows Energy Efficient
There are several window treatments that help save energy. These include:
- Weatherstripping
For increased insulation, seal the openings of your windows during window installation. Weatherstripping protects the home from rain and cold. Triple stripping your windows keeps heat and cool out. It enhances your windows’ soundproofing.
- Foaming Your Frames
Most windows have hollow cavities. This allows heat and cold to move in and out of your home. This reduces energy efficiency. Injecting foam in the hollow cavities will help reduce your energy costs. It reduces sound, heat, cold transfer. It can reduce the risk of windows sagging.
The cost of not having proper insulation in your house can be very high. Because windows and walls take up large areas of space, the majority of energy lost in homes is through them. Your home can be made more energy efficient by choosing the right windows. Aluminum frames can be made from vinyl, fiberglass, and aluminum with a thermal barrier to limit heat transfer.
Low-E, insulated and gas-filled glasses make for energy-efficient Windows. Select the right windows for reducing your energy costs.