Remaining energy-efficient brings benefits to the environment and your wallet. If you want to reduce your carbon footprint and utility bills, look to your windows. Over a quarter of residential heating and cooling energy use stems from heat gain and loss through these units. There are a few steps you can take to reduce temperature transfers and help your HVAC system work less. To help you achieve this, here are a few ways you can boost the efficiency of your windows. 

How to Improve the Energy Efficiency of Your Windows

1. Seal the Gaps

Gaps around windows allow air to escape, causing your HVAC to work harder to maintain a comfortable indoor temperature. To find gaps, look for sunlight coming through areas around the frame. You can also check for leakage with a lit incense stick. If the smoke is drawn toward the window instead of upwards, you have a draft. Use caulk or weatherstripping to seal any gaps.

2. Upgrade the Frames

Vinyl window frames are some of the best insulators. Unlike wood fixtures, they don't expand and contract with temperature shifts, preventing drafts. If you have wood or aluminum frames, consider upgrading to vinyl to improve your efficiency.

3. Apply Window Film

Make your home more comfortable and reduce your energy consumption by adding a heat-control window film. This affordable, easy-to-apply cover reduces your home's heat gain in the summer, so that your air conditioner can run less to keep the space cool.

4. Hang Shutters

Shutters are energy-efficient because they are installed tightly to the window frame. During the winter, they create a barrier to keep you warm inside while saving money on utility bills. Closed shutters in the summertime also block sunlight and the intrusion of hot, humid air.

5. Change Window Treatments

Blinds, drapes, and shades can change the look of a room, while also improving energy efficiency. Roman, cellular, and solar shades, which trap air in their pockets, create an extra layer of insulation. You can add beautiful draperies over these units for an elegant look that keeps heat out in the summer and inside in the winter.

6. Install Window Awnings

Window awnings are typically made of synthetic fabrics. They are water-repellent, as well as mildew- and fade-resistant. You can add an awning to shade the windows in your home that receive the most sunlight. They can be stationary or retractable, giving you the option to shade your space however you want.

7. Switch to Insulated Glass

Improve energy efficiency and reduce noise pollution by replacing your windows with double- or triple-pane insulated glass. The glass is coated to block ultraviolet rays, and argon gas is inserted between the panes to restrict temperature transfer.

When you are ready to replace your windows with insulated glass, contact Shepard's Glass, Inc. in Kalispell, MT, for your window installation. Since 1959, this family-owned and -operated business has provided residents of Flathead Valley and the surrounding areas with glass door and window repairs and installation. They also perform maintenance on glass fixtures. Visit their website for more information on their products or call (406) 755-4540 to schedule a consultation.