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Most of us are familiar with the old-fashioned way to heat and cool our homes: opening the windows! While you may assume that windows’ impact on home heating, cooling, and energy efficiency stops there, that would be incorrect. Your home’s windows have a significant effect on your monthly utility costs and overall energy consumption.
Suppose you’ve been following every rule in the book to maximize your HVAC system’s efficiency, but your home just can’t seem to stay at or reach your desired temperature. In that case, it may be time to take a deeper look at the condition of your home’s windows.
How Do Windows Affect Energy Consumption?
Since your HVAC system is responsible for most of your monthly energy usage, it’s crucial to support your system by taking the extra steps to achieve energy efficiency.
Closing your blinds or drawing the curtains on hot days blocks the sunlight to prevent heat from entering your home, in turn reducing your energy usage. The same goes for the winter; closing window coverings on chilly days can help conserve heat, so your heater won’t have to overwork itself.
Window Coverings 101
Knowing when to open and close your blinds and curtains to maintain an energy-efficient home is critical! For instance, on sunny winter days, allowing natural light to beam in and warm the space can help give your furnace or heater a hand.
Always use your windows and window coverings to work alongside, not against, your HVAC system. This means refraining from propping open windows or doors while your HVAC system is working to reach a set temperature. We understand how tempting it can be to leave a window open on a daily basis for fresh air, but opening them at the wrong time can end up costing you more on your next energy bill.
Check for Drafts
We’ve all been there: you’re relaxing in your cozy and comfortable home and suddenly hear a slight whistling draft sneaking in and disrupting the warm atmosphere in your household. To avoid this situation altogether, it’s recommended to inspect your windows and doors for any gaps or places where drafts could sneak through.
Good news—it’s easy to seal your windows and keep the drafts out! According to the U.S. Energy department, you’ll also enjoy energy savings of up to 20% a year by following the simple steps to stop air leaks.
Seal your home from the outside air with caulk and weatherstripping! Both options are easy DIY projects, affordable, and effectively block air drafts. Walk around your home and inspect all windows, outlets, and doors to ensure no gaps need to be filled.
Pro tip: Place a piece of paper underneath your closed windows. If you can move the paper with ease, it’s time to update or replace the weatherstripping.
Consider Upgrading Your Windows
If your windows are outdated, they’re doing no favor for your HVAC system. There is a wide range of energy-efficient windows on the market, such as storm windows. It’s essential to remember that a highly efficient HVAC system is often supported with energy-efficient windows and adequate insulation. The initial investment of new windows may seem daunting, but after your monthly electric bill rolls in, you’ll be glad you took the leap to support your heating and cooling system.
Professional HVAC Services in Fairfax
Air Treatment Heating & Cooling is here to help you maintain a comfortable home without breaking the bank! We’re proud to offer top-notch heating and cooling services to our customers and community. For more information or to schedule a service, call us today at (703) 270-0881 or complete our online contact form.