Get the Jump on Drafty Windows

Windows provide our homes with light, warmth, and ventilation. But when winter sets in they can have a downside.
Placing your hand against a window pane on a chilly fall morning proves the point: if the pane feels cold, it’s a good bet you can reduce energy costs by either insulating your existing windows or installing new, energy-efficient upgrades.
Insulating with draperies is a low-cost quick fix to drafty windows and can reduce heat loss from a room up to 10 percent. And they’re just as helpful in hot summer months by blocking sunlight. White plastic-backed drapes can reduce heat gain by up to 33 percent.

Interior storm window panels are another low-cost fix (available at most hardware stores), and consist of flexible or rigid plastic installed over or adhered to existing window panes. Installation is fairly simple, and panels are either taped on or mounted with Velcro, magnetic strips, or snap-in seals. Put them up in autumn and remove them in spring to reduce winter heat loss by up to 50 percent.

If you’re in the market for new windows altogether, be sure to choose energy-efficient models that will shave heating, cooling, and lighting costs year round.

Energy Star® has established a set of energy performance ratings, tailored to four climate zones across the United States, to guide you in selecting windows perfect for your home. These performance ratings are broken into several categories, although the two most basic are U-Factor and Solar Heat Gain Coefficient (SHGC), which can be found on window stickers or packaging.

In simple terms, U-Factor measures how easily heat can flow through a window, not counting direct sunlight. The lower the number, the more energy efficient the window.

SHGC measures how much heat from sunlight can be absorbed by the window. A high number means the window remains effective at collecting heat during winter. A low number provides greater shading ability and may be best for Southern climates.

For windows in our climate zone, look for a U-Factor of < 0.35 and a SHGC can be any number. You can also visit www.energystar.gov for more details on our climate zone and other criteria to consider when shopping for new windows.