For homeowners in the Richmond and Chesapeake areas of Virginia, energy efficient windows can make a big difference in not only your comfort level, but energy use and cost as well.  We all enjoy the view to the great outdoors that windows provide, but if yours are older models they may actually be increasing energy use, and therefore how much you pay on your monthly utility bill.

During winter months, the sun streaming through the windows feels wonderful, there is no doubt about it.  However when the summer season arrives, this same sunshine can warm up your home, causing your air conditioner to run longer to keep your home cool and comfortable.  In winter months, old windows that were not designed for energy efficiency may leak cold air, or even feel cold to the touch.  Ultimately, having energy efficient windows installed in your home by professionals can save you substantially on your heating and cooling bills!

Having new windows installed in your home is a smart investment – here’s why:

• Today’s energy efficient selections increase the comfort in your home
• You save money each year due to reduced heating and cooling costs
• The resale value of your home is increased; in most cases, homeowners can recover more than 90% of the cost of having vinyl or wood windows installed
• Improves curb appeal
• Cuts down on outside noise

Older windows that are inefficient or leak air can account for 25% or more of your energy bill, according to the U.S. Department of Energy.  This is huge, considering that a quarter of your hard-earned money may be “flying right out the window” so to speak if you do not have energy efficient windows.  While having new windows installed in a substantial investment, over the years the energy savings will more than make up for it.

Today, Energy Star qualified windows come in a wide array of designs for every need, so you can enjoy a distinctive, beautiful home while paying less in energy costs.  Older windows or those with single panes can make your home not only less energy efficient, but drafty and uncomfortable.  Energy Star products provide you with all of the information including energy performance ratings so that you can make a smart choice. Products that qualify for the Energy Star logo are approved by the U.S. Department of Energy and the EPA; in fact, Energy Star is a joint program of these agencies.

Replace your old windows as soon as you can possibly afford it to enjoy a more comfortable and energy efficient home year-round.  Until then, conserve more energy by:

• Keeping windows that allow sunshine into your home covered with shades or blinds.
• Using fans and ceiling fans to create movement in the air.  This provides a cooling effect in the room you are in, so that you can turn the temperature on the thermostat up a notch or two.
• Use appliances that create heat (oven, stove, clothes dryer) only in the early morning hours to avoid heating up your home.

For most Virginia homeowners, there are many more options when it comes to windows than you might imagine – aluminum/metal frames, composite, fiberglass, vinyl, wood, those that are gas filled to improve thermal performance, insulated, or treated with low-emissivity coatings.  Knowing which type is best for your home in terms of energy and cost savings can be complicated!  To ensure the best results, consult with a professional who can guide you regarding the perfect energy efficient windows for your home.  Also be sure to have your new energy efficient windows installed by a professional, to ensure proper installation and a tight fight.  Your new windows will provide you increased comfort, energy savings, and increase your home’s value – you just cannot argue with that!