Window Energy-Efficiency Tips
Are your Halifax windows as energy efficient as they can be? Windows that leak air can drive up your energy costs and make it impossible to keep your home snug and warm during the cold weather months. Here are some window energy-efficiency tips to help you save money and stay comfortable all year long.
Check for leaks
The easiest way to make your windows more energy efficient is to repair any leaks around the window frame. Look for spots where the seal has come loose or where you can feel a draft. You may be able to simply reseal the windows to increase efficiency, but if the frames are damaged or seriously cracked, you may want to consider getting replacement windows, especially if they are very old. Often, simply replacing the weatherstrip around the windows can greatly improve their energy efficiency.
Not only will this help to keep warm air in during the cold months, but it will help prevent air-conditioned air from escaping during the summer months.
Layer up
Double-glazed windows are more energy efficient than single glazed window units. You can ‘fake’ double glazing by applying some thermal window film to your windows, but this is a short-term solution. You may be able to add panes of glass to your existing windows to create double-glazed windows, but this can be tricky to do since there needs to be a layer of air between the two sheets of glass in order for them to be energy efficient.
Add insulation
An added layer of protection can greatly reduce the energy loss through your windows. Heavy thermal drapes can offer some insulation, but you’re better off installing insulating window panels or interior storm windows. These trap a layer of air between the window and the insulator, preventing energy loss.
Some styles of insulating panels and storm windows install easily and can stay up throughout the winter. You can take them down and reuse them again every winter. These are temporary solutions that can help improve your windows’ energy efficiency tremendously.
If you need more energy-efficient windows, let Windows Plus help you find the right solution for your home’s needs.
