3 Ways to Save Energy with Your Replacement Windows

It can be a significant investment to replace windows in your home. The good news is that not only will new windows add value to your home, but also the energy savings you get from this upgrade will put cash back in your wallet. New windows are a necessary improvement to protect your home from the extreme temperature changes we experience here in Northern Arizona. Here are three ways you can save energy and money with your replacement windows. ​

Window Placement Affects Your Home's Energy Efficiency

Before you head out for some window shopping, take note of the different directions your windows are facing. Are they north, south, east or west-facing? You can increase your home's energy efficiency by selecting specific Low-e (low-emissivity) glass coatings for each window placement in the different areas of your home. You can choose Low-e glass that:

• Reflects heat and retain interior cooling
• Reflects cold weather and retains interior heat
• Blocks harmful UV rays to help prevent sun damage to the interior of your home

 

Window Energy Star Rating Matters

Did you know that if you replace your single-pane windows with ENERGY STAR® certified windows and doors, you could shrink your energy bill by an average of 12 percent nationwide compared to non-certified products?  Over an extended period of time, that's a big difference! When finding the best window choice for your home, don't forget to look for the energy-efficient window labels that indicate their efficiency benefits. Plus, you'll have the added comfort of knowing that windows with ENERGY STAR® and NFRC labels have been thoroughly tested and meet the energy performance standards for your state. 
 

How Window Treatments Save You Money

​Replacement windows will take you a long way in saving energy. Don't overlook the significant additional benefits of window treatments!

• Awnings: In our hot Arizona climate, install awnings to the outside of your windows to help protect your home from the sun's heat. Window awnings can help reduce solar heat by 65% on south-facing windows and 77% on west-facing windows. 

 

• Interior blinds: Interior blinds are effective at reducing heat gain rather than protecting against heat loss. This is because of the many openings between the blinds. However, blinds offer more flexibility in controlling glare, light, and heat during Arizona's summer months.

 

• Drapes: Drapes are dual-purpose. Summertime drapes can help reflect the heat and keep your home cool. In the winter, they can help reduce heat loss from a warm room by up to 10% when installed right. For maximum efficiency, install drapes close to the window and let them reach all the way to the floor.

 

• Shades: Shades in the center of the glass help increase insulation and protect your home in the same way interior blinds would. One major benefit to between-the-glass shades is that you don't have to dust them, and unless a window actually gets broken, it's unlikely they'll get damaged from children or pets.

 

• Solar window screens: Solar window screens reduce solar heat gain, UV glare, and damage. 

 
Whether you are shopping for window replacements or just looking for ways to increase your existing windows' energy efficiency, these window options can help increase your home's energy efficiency and save you money. Want more information on which windows would be the best fit for your home? Chat with our window experts today.