Energy-efficient labels are on many of our home appliances. As smart consumers, we understand that energy efficiency is better for the environment to reduce our carbon footprint and better for our wallets because they use less energy. But do you know what costs us the most money when it comes to energy loss? Air leaks in your home, which are commonly found around your home’s windows and doors, are the biggest contributors to energy loss. That’s why you need to opt for energy-efficient replacement windows.

It is estimated that inefficient windows account for nearly one-third of energy loss in a home. Homeowners can try and combat the tedious task of applying plastic over their windows. But does anyone actually want to go through the task of applying the plastic with tape and a hair dryer and then looking through it all winter long? Have you ever looked through plastic-covered windows? It is like looking through frosted-covered glass which is not the ideal way to enjoy watching a peaceful snowfall. Here are some options AHT Wisconsin Windows, one of Cottage Grove’s most trusted replacement window companies, has to offer:

• Triple pane – Triple pane windows are nearly 70% more energy efficient than single pane windows and up to 40% more energy-efficient than double pane windows.
• Correct installation – Installing the windows correctly is an important step in having an energy-efficient “window system”. You can have a premium replacement window, but if it is installed incorrectly, you could face issues down the road. Some issues that could arise from the improper installation are failing to properly insulate the space between the wall and the window which can cause drafts or not properly fitting the window into the opening causing the window to have issues opening or closing.
• Spacers – A spacer is a material used to separate the panes of glass the seal is created with a butyl spacer. The space helps to prevent the energy-efficient gases from leaking out and stops fogging. Most spacers are aluminum but using non-metallic spacers will reduce the chance of condensation and lessen energy loss.  
• Gas fillings – The spaces between the panes of glass are filled with either argon, krypton, or a proprietary blend, to create a thicker barrier between the inside and outside of your home, this helps to slow the transfer of energy in and out of your home.
• Low-E coating – Low-e coating reflects infrared light (heat) and ultraviolet light trying to pass through your glass. By stopping to prevent heat from leaving your home, it saves you money on your heating bills. It also helps to keep heat out in the summertime to reduce fading damage to your interior and keep your home cooler.
• Solid core frame or Insulation filled frame – The frame of the window is just as important as the glass. You have options like wood, vinyl, metal, fiberglass, or composite frame windows. A solid core composite frame window (this is only offered by AHT Wisconsin Windows in Madison) is made of different materials to create a more durable and energy-efficient replacement window frame.  
• Weatherstripping – Weatherstripping is a piece of nylon that is used to reduce air infiltration in the sash that meets the frame. Typically weatherstripping is found in weak places around your replacement window where air meets the seal.

What are the benefits of energy-efficient triple pane replacement windows for Cottage Grove Homeowners?

Here are some of the other benefits:

• Energy-efficient windows with Low-E coating can protect your furniture, window treatments, and flooring from fading due to UV rays.
• Triple pane windows with a solid core that are installed properly will reduce outside noise.
• Your home will stay comfortable in all of Wisconsin’s changing weather without having to constantly adjust your home’s thermostat.

For more information about energy efficiency, visit energystar.gov or check out this pdf about energy-efficient replacement windows from the US Department of Energy.

Energy-Efficient Tip

Make sure you keep your windows and doors locked to keep your home safe and tighten the seal between the window and the frame to prevent air leaks.