How to Make Windows Energy Efficient

With the rising costs of energy, it's more important than ever to make sure your windows are energy efficient. From simple home-improvement projects to larger investments, there are numerous things you can do to make your windows more energy efficient.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

1. Plant trees in your yard to help your windows do their job. By planning where you plant trees, you can direct shadows to cross your windows during the warmest parts of the day. A little shade can do a lot to help your windows keep cool air inside the house.

2. Construct a new house with window placements in mind. By building a house with larger windows facing north or south, you can limit the amount of direct sunlight that enters your house.

3. Build overhangs to provide a regular amount of shade throughout the day. You may need the help of a construction contractor to build professional window overhangs.

4. Purchase windows with multiple panes of glass. Single-pane windows are the most energy inefficient. Double-or-triple-pane windows can help to keep your home insulated and reduce your energy bill.

5. Look for windows with "Low-E Glass" coating. The United States Department of Energy recommends this specialty coating to help keep windows insulated and protected from ultraviolet light.

6. Replace your old windows with ones made with vinyl, fiberglass or wood-composite frames. Older wood frames provide less insulation than ones made from more modern materials.

7. Install new windows with the help of a professional. Modern, energy efficient windows will be useless if they're installed incorrectly.

8. Look for windows displaying the Energy Star logo. The U.S. Department of Energy has designated this logo for use on windows or other products that offer distinct ecological advantages. Energy Star windows will be much more energy efficient.

9. Visit EnergyStar.gov to learn more about purchasing Energy Star windows and other products (see Resources below).

Tips & Warnings

• The federal government offers some tax breaks for people who invest in energy efficient windows. Some states also offer tax incentives to make energy efficient windows even more attractive. Check with your tax officials for such breaks.
• Use energy efficient windows to save wear and tear on your furniture. By blocking ultraviolet light, energy efficient windows can help to protect the colors in fabrics from fading.
• Fix minor problems as quickly as major ones. The amount of insulation the average home loses through minor leaks and drafts is equal to an open window.

Resources

• Energy efficient windows from EnergyStar.gov