Five Critical Tips for Optimising the Efficiency of Your Double-Glazed Windows
Posted on: 5 January 2016
Double-glazed windows can help to make your home more efficient. Essentially, they trap air between their two panes, and this acts as an insulator against both heat and cold. However, there are ways to optimise the performance of your double-glazed windows so your home can be as efficient as possible. Check out these ideas:
1. Replace north-facing windows first
If you currently have single-pane windows and are thinking about upgrading to double-glazed windows, you don't necessarily have to do your entire home at once. Instead, you can work on sections of it at a time to help spread out the expense.
If possible, you should start with the windows on the north side of your home. During the summer, the north-side of your home gets the most sun, and as a result, this is the most important side of your home in terms of energy efficiency. Do the west side of the house next followed by the south and east sides.
2. Don't forget the double-glazed doors
Windows aren't the only part of your home where you can gain unwanted heat. Your doors can also let hot air and drafts in. Luckily, you can also find double-glazed doors.
If you have patio doors, French doors or other types of doors with lots of glass, consider making them more efficient with double-glazed glass. This will help to alleviate some of the pressure on your windows.
3. Add tinted window film
To give the glass itself a bit more efficiency, consider adding tinted window film to your windows. You can have film professionally installed, or you can buy sheets that you stick to your window yourself. Tinted film helps to block UV light, making your home healthier, but it also blocks heat, making your home even more efficient.
4. Hang energy efficient window treatments
Finally, you can hang energy efficient window treatments over your double-glazed windows. Look for treatments that promise a certain level of efficiency, or simply look for heavy curtains with dark colors.
5. Open and close curtains or blinds strategically
Ideally, you should keep your curtains or blinds closed during the day when the sun is high. This blocks the sun's harsh rays from getting into your home. However, if the temperature drops at night, you can open your window treatments and even your windows and let the cool air in. When the morning comes, trap the cool air and keep out the heat by closing your windows and curtains again.
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