Are you looking for a simple way to conserve energy and save money on your next power bill?
The answer is clear.
Your windows.
Cold air entering the house and escaping heat are some of the biggest causes of strain to HVAC systems.
Did you know more than 1/3 of your home’s heat is lost through windows and doors?
Heat loss and cold air draughts force your heating appliances to run for much longer hence wasting energy.
Eliminating draughts and heat loss through the windows and door can however help reduce the strain, hence save you lots of money in energy bills.
One simple way to do this is to make your windows more energy-efficient.
According to Michael Yousef, custom design architect, most home improvements not only help improve the appearance of the house but also make your home more energy-efficient. He explains “some of the easy upgrades, including window-treatments, are inexpensive yet have a significant impact on your home’s energy efficiency.”
If you’re ready to save money on your next bill, here are four ways windows can help reduce energy loss in the house.
#1 Tinted Windows
Tinted windows not only improve privacy inside your home but also come in handy in reducing heat and cold gain inside the house.
Depending on the tint-grade, a tinted window will even prevent UV rays from penetrating the windows.
This option is mostly recommended where window replacement isn’t an option.
Tinting your windows will help reduce heat gain during the warmer parts of the day.
The best thing with window tint is that you get to choose from a wide variety of designs and colours for your windows.
Research shows that window tinting can block up to 70% of the sun’s heat, 93% UV rays, and 58% of incoming heat.
This means your HVAC systems won’t strain due to heat gain.
While you can install the tinting film yourself, hiring a professional window tint expert would produce much better results.
#2 Window Insulation
Window insulation is a process that involves installing a transparent film on the windowpane, thus trapping air in between the film and the window.
Studies show that transparent window insulation boosts R-value by up to 90% in single-pane windows.
This, therefore, translates to reduced heat loss thus lower heating bills at the end of the month. Transparent window insulation is relatively easy and straightforward.
All you need to do is place the film in place, apply heat (using a blow dryer) to shrink the film.
Although window insulation may not be particularly appealing to the eye, it provides a cheap and fast way to prevent heat loss through wind drafts.
This method also makes it much easier to maintain the preferred room temperature.
#3 Cellular Shades
Cellular shades have been gaining popularity over recent years.
These provide an aesthetically appealing and effective way to make your home more energy-efficient.
The shades are made of a network of solid honeycombs that come in handy blocking up to 90% of sunlight and trapping heat/cold.
Leaving your house or room more comfortable with little to no heat loss.
Cellular shades manufacturers claim you will save 17% on energy bills from having these installed.
It is worth noting that cellular shades come in various designs, colours, and can be custom-fitted for improved interior finishes.
Cellular shades have been around for centuries.
All that has changed is how they are manufactured and designed.
Modern-day cellular shades tend to last a lot longer and are available in a wide range of colours.
Unlike traditional cellular shades, modern shades do not wear out with time or due to exposure to UV rays. This makes them an excellent investment for your windows, and particularly if looking to give your apartment a fresh new look and feel.
These sleek and unique blinds will help to insulate your room all year round says window furnishing experts at Burns for Blinds. They state that; “With a fine-textured fabric, cellular blinds won’t sag or lose shape and are surprisingly easy to clean with a quick occasional vacuum to remove dust and damp sponge for stain removal. Cellular blinds are available in an exciting range of colours with a colour co-ordinated rail to complete the look”.
#4 Invest in Energy Star-Rated Windows
Energy Star-rated windows will save you up to 12% in energy bills per year.
Experts on making sustainable home design choices, DC Cladding, say that energy starred windows translate to an even lower carbon footprint in your home. They explain “energy-efficient windows have been trending for the past couple of years. In addition to improving your home’s energy efficiency, these windows come in a wide range of designs and are aesthetically appealing. Some of these windows also come in handy in sound-proofing.”
These windows require minimal maintenance.
The print doesn’t peel off either, one of the reasons replacing traditional windows with energy-star rated vinyl windows would be a great investment.
Investing in the best form of window protection will benefit you in the long run.
Are you ready to start cutting your energy bill all thanks to the power of your home’s windows?
Find your supreme blind style for your home and start saving today.
