Reviewed and Revised on 11/13/2013
It is very important that you consider your climate when selecting energy efficient windows to reduce home energy use. One size or type does not fit all homes and climate zones.
Window energy efficiency criteria for different climates
In temperate climates with both heating and cooling seasons, select windows with both a low solar heat gain coefficient (SHGC) and a low U-factor to maximize energy benefits and savings.
For cold or very cold climates where
Reviewed and Revised on 11/13/2013
Window treatments can help improve the energy efficiency of windows in your home. However, other improvements such as:
insulating attics
can have a higher impact on reducing your home energy use and should be done before considering window treatments. Window treatments are generally especially helpful, If there are problems with solar heat gain (sun’s heat travelling through a window and heating the inside of a home), feeling cold from …
Reviewed and Revised on 11/13/2013
Why Energy Efficient Windows? The Costs and the Benefits.
Your windows typically provide you with a view, ventilation, shelter, and light. They may also be costing you loss of energy, hard earned dollars, and comfort. Inadequately insulated windows and doors can cost up to 30% a homes’ energy dollars. Many old U.S. homes have single-glazed (one glass layer) windows. These homeowners may choose to add storm windows, or replace them with new double or …
Reviewed and Revised on 10/10/2013
A simple way homeowners can check their homes for heat loss is with an infrared thermometer. Infrared thermometers vary in cost, but generally are around $50. Depending on the season, a homeowner can find areas in a home where air and heat are leaking. The bigger the difference between the inside and outside temperature the easier it is to detect heat leaks. The North Dakota State University …
Reviewed and Revised 01/03/2014
Set thermostats no higher than 68 ºF when people are home.
Lower the thermostat when you sleep or not at home. Lowering the thermostat by 10 to 15 degrees for 8 hrs can help you save 5-15% annually on your heating bill. Energy.gov website states that if the setback period is 8 hrs or longer than
Reviewed and Revised on 10/10/2013
Questions and Answers about Caulking and Weatherstripping Your Home
In a well-insulated home, air leaks are the greatest cause of wasted heating and cooling energy. Caulking and weatherstripping are effective ways to rid your home of costly drafts. Keep in mind that heat always moves toward …
