When researching which type of window to get, the phrase ‘energy-efficient’ can get thrown around quite a lot. With energy prices higher than ever, everyone wants to do what they can to cut down on their bills.
So what are energy-efficient windows, and how can they lower your heating bills?
Energy efficient windows are windows that are designed to prevent heat loss. When the weather is cold outside, it’s vital that warmth stays inside your home, and doesn’t escape through a window or door.
They’re made from two or three glass panes, surrounded by an insulating material such as UPVC. Typically, energy-efficient windows are either double or tripled glazed.
Double/triple glazing works because the gaps between the panes are filled with air or an inert gas. This gap insulates against heat transfer from the cold weather outside.
It’s a common misconception that double glazing ‘traps’ heat – but this isn’t the case. The air/gas gap slows down thermal transfer by conduction – meaning it slows down the movement of heat to reduce heat loss.
Because heat loss is reduced, this means that you’re spending less on heating your home and it stays warmer for longer.
What happens in summer?
Although in winter double-glazing keeps heat in, it works in the opposite way during summer.
In the warmer months, energy-efficient windows actually prevent heat from entering your home. They can reflect heat to keep your house as cool as possible.
Are there any other benefits?
Lower heating bills is only one of the many benefits to energy-efficient windows.
One great benefit is noise insulation. Not only do the windows keep heat in, they also insulate your home against external noise – perfect for those of us who have noisey neighbours.
Energy-efficient windows can also reduce the build up of condensation on the inside of your windows. This is perfect for maintaining the quality of your windows for longer.
If you’re looking for energy efficient windows, get in touch with G&L Windows today.
