23 Feb Do Energy Efficient Windows Work?

Do Energy Efficient Windows Work?

Concerns around energy prices are causing more people to question if energy efficient windows work. What about them makes them more energy efficient than the windows you already have? In this blog we will explore why, and how energy efficient windows work.

What Are Energy Efficient Windows?

Energy efficient frames and glazing make energy efficient windows. Both components must be energy efficient in order for the whole window to be deemed as such.

The glass panes of a window, known as ‘glazing’, are considered to be energy efficient when there are two or more glass panes within a sealed unit. Examples of this, are double and triple glazed windows.

Sealed between the panes of glass is air, or a gas, that reduces heat loss through the panes. A gas like argon for example, is efficient at letting heat pass through, and because of its low conductivity, it also reduces sound passing through.

Within the sealed unit, is a strip of metal or plastic called a spacer. This will sometimes contain a drying agent to absorb any trapped moisture.

A special film coated on the inner surface of one pane to make glazing even more energy efficient. Called low-emissivity glass, it lets light filter through still but reflects heat back.

The glazing is held in place with a frame which could be made from uPVC or aluminium. These materials are good at combating heat loss and are very durable.

How Do Energy Efficient Windows Work?

The multiple glazing, combined with good quality frames, gas between the panes and low-emissivity glass combine to prevent heat being lost through the window. This is what helps save money on energy bills.

If your windows are single glazed or not very effective anymore, will be losing heat through the glazing. This has a knock-on effect on heating as it takes more energy to warm up a room that is constantly losing heat.

Putting the additional measures in place, keeps more heat in your house and keeps the cold outdoors. This works in reverse when the weather is different. During the hot days of summer, multiple glazed windows prevent the cooler air from getting out of the home, as well as avoiding lots of heat coming in from outside.

Losing heat out of a window can increase your home energy bills as it takes longer to heat and gets cold quicker. New, energy efficient windows can prevent that heat loss, therefore saving you money on your bills.

What Are The Benefits Of Energy Efficient Windows?

In addition to reducing energy consumption, there are a number of other considerations to enjoy.

New, energy efficient windows reduce noise pollution and condensation. They improve kerb appeal and the look of your home. Some research shows that energy efficient windows can increase the sale price of a home.

In addition, multiple panes are harder to smash through which makes them more secure. Read our article about preventing home burglaries for more information on this topic.

Energy efficient windows work by combining materials that produce a more effective barrier to heat loss through a window. Where old windows let heat escape, energy efficient windows keep heat in and heating bills down.