Replacing Your Windows for Energy Efficiency
Old windows can let a massive amount of heat leave your home – up to 40%! This can leave you feeling uncomfortable and chilly, and on top of this make your heating bill soar. Energy efficiency should be one of the main factors you think of when getting new windows Bangor for your home. Getting it right could potentially save you up to 20% on your energy bills.
How is the energy efficiency of windows measured?
First of all, it’s helpful to know that the energy efficiency of a window is represented by its U-factor. This can be anything between 0.15 and 0.30. The lower the number, the better the window is at keeping the heat in. You don’t really want anything with a U-factor of over 0.26, especially if you live somewhere that can get pretty cold!
Which windows are the most energy efficient?
The best windows for energy efficiency are:
Double and Triple-Glazed Windows
Double-glazing is when a window has two panes of glass, with a cavity in between them. This is filled with an inert gas which helps the window keep the heat in. Triple-glazing is essentially the same but with three panes of glass and two cavities filled with gas.
Triple-glazing is the perfect replacement style window for those that want their home to be super energy efficient. Triple-glazed windows usually get the best U-factor, and let very little energy out through them.
If you are on a budget, you could consider getting triple-glazed windows only at parts of the house that are prone to losing heat. If you installed triple-glazed windows on the south side of your home (the side which has exposure to the sun for the full day) then your home would stay warmer, and it is retaining most of this heat from the sun.
Glass Panes Filled With Argon
Argon is a gas that is often used to fill the cavity between double-glazing and triple-glazing. This adds extra insulation to your windows, keeping your home warmer.
Argon is a non-toxic, natural gas which isn’t unsafe or dangerous. Also, it’s colourless, so your windows will look completely clear and normal.
Argon filled double-glazing is an affordable solution, which works wonders in comparison to single-paned windows.
Foam Filled Windows
You could choose to have the frames and sashes of your replacement windows filled with foam. This can help reduce heat loss, and increase your home’s energy efficiency.
Before you order your new windows, it’s best to find a great window installer. They can give you guidance on which windows you should get. They should also tell you that the efficiency of windows is not just about on the window itself, but about being properly installed.
The most energy efficient window ever could be installed improperly and have a very low efficiency!
