As we crank up our air conditioners this summer, are you watching your money go out the window with leaky single-paned windows? The good news is, you can save hundreds of dollars each year on heating and cooling bills by replacing old-school models with new energy efficient windows.
According to the Department of Energy, heat gain and heat loss through our windows are responsible for 25 to 30 percent of residential heating and cooling energy use. That’s a lot of wasted energy! Fortunately, window technology has blossomed in recent years with some inspiring innovations. This translates into significant savings on energy bills.
How Can Window Technology Save Me Money?
Replacing existing windows with high-performance vinyl windows is a guaranteed money saver. Some of the most important developments are Low E and Argon gas-filled windows. When these two advances are combined, it means significant energy savings. Low E/Argon Gas windows keep your house warmer in the winter and cooler in the summer by reducing heat inflow and outflow.
- Low E: The “E” stands for emissivity, which refers to the level at which a surface emits energy through heat. Low emissivity (or Low E) is a good thing in windows! Manufacturers treat them with special coatings to lower that E rating and prevent heat loss in the winter and heat gain in the summer. The Low E factor comes from a super-thin transparent layer that reflects heat. It also blocks UV rays that can damage carpets and furniture.
- The Argon gas fill is another fantastic technology boosting energy efficiency in homes all over the country. Top window companies fill double and triple panes with Argon, a non-toxic, colorless, odorless gas. Because its thermal conductivity is lower than air, Argon is an excellent thermal barrier that blocks heat gain or loss. This keeps the changing temperatures on the outside from affecting the comfort inside.
Are Energy-Efficient Windows Worth the Cost?
The energy-saving features on today’s high-performance vinyl windows do add to the price tag. But you’ll see noticeable energy savings (up to $465 a year according to the U.S. DOE) compared with traditional single panes. Window replacement also has several other benefits:
- Low E/Argon Gas windows are virtually maintenance-free. However, they do need to be replaced if they get broken.
- High-performance windows are not just about function and energy efficiency: they also look terrific.
- Premium vinyl windows are available in a wide range of styles and sizes. Favorites include architectural windows, easy-open awning windows, and casement windows that open outward for excellent ventilation. You can easily achieve any look you want while you reap the benefits of energy efficiency.
Getting More From Your Windows with DryHome
Today’s high-performance vinyl windows have lots of advantages. They save homeowners money on heating and cooling bills. They benefit the environment by reducing energy use and making our homes more comfortable all year long. At DryHome, one of our specialties is replacing outdated windows with gorgeous, energy-efficient models. We work with several top-rated window suppliers. Our knowledgeable team will help you choose the brand and style that achieve your aesthetic and energy-efficiency goals.
