Installing new windows can seem like a daunting task because they have a relatively big price tag. However, older windows are costing you money and comfort. Try thinking of putting new windows in your home as an investment, rather than just another thing that has to be paid for. Because in truth, the amount of savings that comes with energy efficient windows, will quickly add up. Contact Power House to learn more about window installation options!
WHAT ARE ENERGY EFFICIENT WINDOWS?
Before you decide to update your windows to a more energy efficient model, it is important to first understand exactly what these windows do. Energy efficient, or energy saving windows (usually with an ENERGY STAR rating) are designed with more insulation than traditional windows. Not only does the glass have multiple layers to increase insulation, but the windows also have a better seal around the frame to keep air from escaping. By keeping air inside your home, you can reduce the amount of money you spend on your heating and cooling bill. Have you ever been sitting next to a window in the winter and noticed that area seems colder than a spot away from the window? With energy efficient windows, you won’t experience that issue. Whether you are running your heating system or your a/c, the inside air stays inside, while the air outside stays outside.
SINGLE PANE VS. DOUBLE PANE VS. TRIPLE PANE WINDOWS
If you are considering hiring home improvement services to make your home more energy efficient, starting with the windows is a straight forward project. In older homes, you may still have single-pane windows. “Pane” refers to the layers – a single pane only has one layer of glass. These provide very little insulation and allow heat to escape outside in the winter, and cool air to get out in the summer. Double pane windows are more common and are more energy efficient than single pane because they provide an extra layer of insulation. Triple pane windows are even better, because it provides a third layer of insulation. In constructing a double or triple pane window, layers of glass are sandwiched together with air pockets in between each layer. The air pockets are filled with special gases to increase insulation and then sealed so that no air can come in or out. The extra insulation increases the amount of money you can save on your energy bill.
INCREASE YOUR HOME’S VALUE
Having up-to-date energy efficient windows can increase your home’s value by $12,000. So if you are planning on selling your home in a few years, you might as well invest in home improvement services and update the windows now. That way you can enjoy the savings created by energy efficient windows and it is one less thing you will need to take care of when it comes time to put your house on the market.
HOW TO SAVE MONEY
Energy efficient windows that have ENERGY STAR ratings can seem pricey but if you are replacing or updating older windows, they will save you money in the long run. By replacing single-pane windows, you will save an estimated $126-$465 per year on your energy bill by containing the heated or cooled air in your home. If you replace double-pane windows with an energy efficient model, it is estimated that you will save between $27 and $111 each year.
QUIET
Although this doesn’t save you money, it may save you peace of mind. An added bonus to installing new energy efficient windows is that the added layers of insulation will reduce noise. If you live on a busy street, or if there is an annoying yappy dog next door, installing new double or triple pane windows will create more of a buffer between you and outdoor noises.
Installing energy efficient windows is beneficial to you for a variety of reasons. It increases your comfort and decreases your energy bill. Don’t let dollars keep seeping out your old windows this summer! Give Power House a call today to discuss our home improvement services and to see how we can help you install new windows.
For more information about updating your home with energy efficient windows, check out https://www.energy.gov/energysaver/design/windows-doors-and-skylights/update-or-replace-windows
