How Much Do Energy-Efficient Windows Save?

If you have plans to replace the windows at your home, then you’ve most likely been doing research about windows and have run across the phrase “energy efficient” a number of times. There’s a reason why energy efficiency is such a buzzword in the home industry, though. We all want to live in well-insulated homes and we all most definitely want energy bills that make us smile, not grimace in disbelief. But the question every homeowner about to embark on a window replacement project needs to ask is this: can energy-efficient windows actually save you money? We’re here to answer that question!

What Is Energy Efficiency and Why Does It Affect My Windows?

The simplest definition of energy efficiency is that it is the ability to use less energy to perform a task. Let’s say it’s summertime in New Orleans and your home is filled with old, drafty windows that let the hot outside air enter your home through gaps in your window frames or the sun’s radiant heat through glass that’s not insulated. This means that your air conditioner has to put in a lot of energy to keep your home at a comfortable temperature since it’s also competing with the hot outside air and sun’s radiant heat that’s entering your home. In this example, your home is not operating at peak energy efficiency.

With energy-efficient windows, however, there is a reduced rate of hot air and radiant heat entering your home through your windows, which means your air conditioner uses less energy to keep your home cool and thus, peak energy efficiency is reached.

What Makes a Window Energy Efficient?

An energy-efficient window has many components working together to insulate your home against the weather. They include:

• Glass – An energy-efficient window must have two or three panes of glass, and many manufacturers also add a type of inert gas for insulation (argon and krypton are most popular) as well as Low-E coatings that block harmful UV rays.
• Frames – Vinyl is a premium option for energy efficiency, as it does not conduct heat. Plus, it’s durable and can handle extreme temperature fluctuations without expanding or contracting.
• Spacers – A spacer is used to keep the glass panes an optimal distance apart from one another but that’s not their sole role. They also improve insulation by helping to accommodate any stress caused by air pressure differences or thermal expansion.

It should be noted that window installation also plays a significant role in energy efficiency. After all, even the most energy-efficient windows won’t perform like they should if they are shoddily installed. This is why it’s important to work with a professional window contractor, like MaxHome, when you’re ready to begin your window replacement project. Our installers are factory certified and highly trained and will adhere to the highest standard when installing your windows.

How Much Will I Save with Energy-Efficient Windows?

Now that we’ve covered the basics of energy-efficient windows, we can discuss cost. Will you save money by having these windows installed? The short answer is: yes!

According to the U.S. Department of Energy, upgrading your windows to ENERGY STAR® rated models can save you roughly $71-$500 annually, depending on where you live. Homes in warmer climates, like New Orleans, should see the higher end of that number. In order for a window to qualify as ENERGY STAR® rated, it must be double-paned with inert gases between the panes, have spacers to keep the panes the correct distance apart, and feature low-E coatings to reflect UV light. They should also have insulated window frames.

At MaxHome, the replacement windows we install for homeowners in the New Orleans area are ENERGY STAR® rated, which means you should see savings on your energy bills and enjoy an all-around comfortable indoor temperature – even when the outside temperature hits the triple digits.

Get in Touch with MaxHome, a Local Windows Installer in New Orleans

If you’re ready to invest in energy-efficient windows, then MaxHome wants to help you make that a reality. We install windows that offer incredible energy efficiency. And, they are ENERGY STAR® rated, so you can feel good that you are making the eco-friendly choice when selecting these windows.

Contact MaxHome today to schedule a complimentary consultation with our team. We look forward to making your home in New Orleans more energy efficient with our replacement windows.