Can Leaky Windows Affect My Home Energy Costs?

The United States Department of Energy (DOE) estimates that heat gain and loss through your house’s windows account for up to 30% of your home heating and cooling energy usage. Poorly insulated windows also force your HVAC system to cycle longer, and the additional wear and tear can shorten the lifespan of your unit. Here are some ways to lower your monthly energy bills by minimizing heat loss and gain through your windows.

SINGLE-PANE VERSUS DOUBLE-PANE WINDOWS

All newly constructed homes now include double-paned windows, but they weren’t common in houses until the 1970s. Single-paned windows aren’t nearly as effective at preventing heat transfer as double-paned windows, so it’s always a smart investment to upgrade your windows. Double-paned windows also include dense gases such as krypton or argon between the panes for an additional level of insulation.

WINDOW ENERGY EFFICIENCY RATINGS

If you’re in the market for new windows, be sure to review their features carefully. Manufacturers measure a window’s energy efficiency rating in terms of its U-value or R-value. A lower U-value means that it allows less heat transfer, while a higher R-value means that it offers increased insulating ability. Be sure to also look for the window’s solar heat gain coefficient (SHGC). SHGC measures the amount of heat transfer generated by sunlight, which is always important to know in Arizona’s arid desert climate.

GET A FREE ESTIMATE ON ENERGY-EFFICIENT WINDOWS

Replacing single-pane windows with double-pane windows can reduce your annual energy costs by up to 40%, and our team at Xtreme Air, Inc. is always just a phone call away when you’re ready for a free estimate. We’ve been offering heating and cooling repair, installation, and maintenance in Phoenix, Arizona since 2006, and our commitment to legendary service is second to none. We’re a proud member of the Arizona Heat Pump Council, and we always offer up-front pricing with no hidden fees. Contact Xtreme Air, Inc. today if you have any questions or if you’re ready to schedule an estimate for new energy-efficient windows.