# Window Home Energy: 5 Saving Tips

- Link: https://greenlivingguy.com/2021/04/window-home-change-5-energy-saving-tips/
- Published: 2021-04-14T12:33:09-04:00
- Author: Eillin Delapaz

Let’s talk window home change now. For any drafty window at home has to change for
energy savings. Whether you’ve got a new or old window at home, change is quite 
a necessity now. Especially to have energy-efficient windows. Anything that makes
you [save on energy](https://greenlivingguy.com/2014/01/accell-greengenius-smart-surge-protector-saves-energy/)
is always a good idea. Whether it’s the cost savings you’re after, or the desire
to live an eco-friendlier lifestyle, you won’t regret making this more conscious
choice. You can even create a more comfortable environment at home by making that
change.
 Especially now that people are staying at their window at home,[ energy](https://greenlivingguy.com/2022/08/10-largest-wind-project-development-2022/)
is more than usual. Especially for school and [remote working](https://greenlivingguy.com/2021/04/5-must-know-environmental-benefits-of-remote-working/).
That’s all the more that problem areas should have to be addressed. The changes 
can be little or huge, depending on the current state of your windows and your budget.⌊
Window home energy⌉ Here are some of the best [energy saving tips](https://greenlivingguy.com/2014/01/5-energy-saving-tips-to-keep-you-green-in-2014/)
for windows:

## 1. Seal The Gaps

Before making that big change of replacing your entire windows with brand new ones,
you may want to start by sealing the gaps first. Often, this is a very simple change
that can be completed using sealers you’ll find at the hardware shop. Especially
if you’ve got older windows, this problem is pretty prevalent.
 But, you’d have 
to note that finding these gaps isn’t that easy. You have to start with a thorough
inspection first, looking for areas around the window frames where there’s light.
If this is difficult during daytime, you might want to do it at night, with the 
help of a flashlight. Another very effective way is through using an incense and
holding it close to the windows. Watch where the smoke flows so you can see the 
holes.

## **2. Look For Air Leaks**

The common air leaks in a window at home cause energy costs to rise. These costs
are obviously under the door. But, you’ll also need to find some of the other less
obvious gaps that may be around your home.
 Generally, you’ll want to hire a qualified
technician for this job as it can be difficult to decipher accurately on your own.
This technician will perform what’s known as the blower test, which depressurizes
each room, showing where the air leaks are. This is a very effective means to [audit](https://greenlivingguy.com/2021/05/why-energy-audits-are-good-for-business/)
energy, which can help show the areas that need more insulation.

### 3. Add Window Treatments And Coverings

Window treatments and coverings hit two birds with one stone: they’re aesthetically
pleasing and, at the same time, increase [energy efficiency in your home](https://greenlivingguy.com/2010/05/indiana-delays-in-weatherizing-homes-for-residents-delays-in-weatherizing-homes-for-residents/).
Most window treatments will result in [energy savings](https://greenlivingguy.com/2020/03/installation-of-solar-panels-on-home-can-increase-value-by-4-percent-during-resale/),
but the extent of these savings will depend on the type of window attachment and
the season.
 For instance, in the hot summer months, you may want to keep your window
coverings closed to block heat. But, in the areas where it isn’t too hot, opening
these to some extent will also bring more natural light in. The key is for you to
create that balance.

#### Some of these window treatments are:

 1. **Insulated cellular shades. **These are window treatments that look like an accordion,
    so it’s easy to fold them up and bring them down. These contain one or more air
    layers in each of their honeycomb cross-sections. Moreover, these honeycomb sections
    also act as an insulator to reduce the conduction of heat going through the windows.
 2. **Roman shades. **These are relatively inexpensive shades, usually made of fabric,
    that can be drawn up or down in a series of evenly stacked folds. The heavier the
    fabric, the better the thermal performance.
 3. **Blinds. **These are common window treatments that are more effective at blocking
    summer heat than the winter cold. So, they’re best applied to homes in locations
    that don’t have harsh winters or none at all. These are also more adjustable, as
    each of the slats can be adjusted to control [solar heat gain](https://greenlivingguy.com/2020/04/lowering-energy-bills-by-replacing-your-windows/),
    light, and glare. With so many options of blinds to choose from, here’s a [fitting day and night blinds guide](https://www.makemyblinds.co.uk/blog/post/measure-install-day-night-blinds)
    to help you out.
 4. **Window films. **These can block solar heat and can also protect against ultraviolet
    rays penetrating directly into your home. This is the best option for homeowners
    who don’t want to have window treatments that block their view but just want to
    control the heat that comes through their windows. Plus, window films also add 
    a tad bit more privacy.
 5. **Awning. **This is a type of window treatment that works from the exterior of 
    the home. It’s a roof-like shelter that shades windows from the sun’s glare. This
    can also help add shade to outdoor spaces. The key is to choose an awning type 
    that’s tightly woven and opaque. Otherwise, a light-colored awning will only attract
    more sunlight.

## **4. Install Double-Glazing**

Double-glazing refers to a kind of tint that’s applied to windows. This can help
keep warm air inside the room and cold air out. It can also help reduce the noise
coming from the outside. So, if you live in a busy neighborhood, this is another
investment that’ll truly be worth it.
 This job is best for experts. But, despite
adding one more layer of glass or tint to your windows, it’s still a cheaper and
faster option than having to replace all of your windows.

## **5. Change Your Windows**

Lastly, the biggest project among the tips listed here is to change your windows.
If all the other energy-saving options don’t seem to work, then it’s high time to
change your windows.
 There are many variables that come into play when deciding
on the right windows for your home. Some of these include:

 * **Framing material. **When choosing this, it’s important to consider insulation
   quality, appearance, and durability.

 * **Energy-efficiency. **Of course, [your new windows](https://www.thespruce.com/most-popular-window-styles-1822931)
   have to be energy-efficient, or else you’re just wasting money on new ones that
   work just like the old ones.
 * **Cost. **While this is the biggest project you can do to your home, it doesn’t
   always have to break a hole in your pocket. There are many types of windows that
   fit many budget spectrums.

## **Conclusion**

Especially if your home is an older one, you might come to realize that your windows
are no longer as efficient as they used to be. Perhaps, it’s so much warmer during
the hot days, and too cold come winter. These situations are hurting your comfort
level at home and even your bills. So, if there’s any type of change you’re looking
to do to your home, it’s a good idea to start with your windows. Think of the project
as an investment that can make your home more efficient in the long run.
