Climate change remains a key concern for people around the world. As governments go through the long process of changing their laws, regular families are looking for ways they can live greener too. Of course, cutting down the amount of energy your household uses achieves this purpose while lowering your bills at the same time. One really simple way of doing this is right there in front of you — your windows. According to data from the US government, your windows could be accounting for around 25 to 30% of your total air conditioning or heating bill. Here are some ways you can reduce that effect.
Reduce Air Leaks
Even when windows look perfectly tight, they may be allowing small streams of air into your home. Losing this temperature-controlled air forces the system to work harder to replace it. You can prevent this by applying a sealant or covering edges with a sealing strip. It's a simple job you can do yourself, and tutorials are available on YouTube and DIY websites across the internet. This solution won't work forever, but it's a good place to start if you're short on time or your budget.
Add Layers
Adding curtains, blinds, reflective strips or other interior coverings to your windows may disrupt the airflow around them and discourage air from leaking out. Any thick curtain fabric, for example, will also help to create a barrier between the temperatures outside and inside your home. If you're able to add barriers on the outside of your home too, such as awning covers, then this will work too.
New, Efficient Windows
The most effective way to solve this issue is to replace your windows entirely. New, properly-fitted windows will prevent the kind of leakage that happens over time as properties settle, move and age. If you take the opportunity to upgrade to double-glazed windows or other eco-friendly options at the same time, then you'll notice an even bigger difference in temperature retention in your home. Naturally, this is an investment compared to simply working with existing structures, but the cost will be offset by energy savings over time.
Whether your primary concern is your impact on the planet or your energy payments, you'll still benefit from ensuring your windows are fit for purpose. So don't keep losing your hard-earned cool air to the weather outside or heating your home twice — spend half an hour checking your window frames and it'll be time well spent. Look into window replacement services near you for more information.
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