California’s electricity prices are among the highest in the country according to a recent study. This comes as no surprise to Southern California homeowners. Did you know that your windows have a significant impact on your cooling costs? Outdated, poorly maintained, or deteriorating windows can leak as much as 35-40% of the heat and air conditioning from your home. Homeowners are literally throwing money out the window!
The Department of Energy estimates that installing energy efficient windows can save you 12% a year on utility costs. That could mean anywhere from $125 to $465 a year in your pocket. Additionally, the Non-Business Energy Property Tax Credits have been retroactively extended from December 31, 2017 through December 31, 2021. You could receive up to a $500 tax credit for energy efficient window installation.
Energy efficient windows prevent heated or cooled air from escaping your home. They are built with two or three panes of glass, and some contain argon gas between the panes. Special coating on the windows also helps keep out heat. This increased insulation reduces your home’s energy usage—and therefore, your bills!
Two important measures of energy efficiency are the Energy Star rating and the Solar Heat Gain Coefficient (SHGC). Always look for the ENERGY STAR label when buying new windows. Review the window’s ratings on the energy performance label from the National Fenestration Rating Council (NFRC) to find the most efficient windows for your needs.
SHGC is a measure of solar radiation admitted through a window. For Southern California’s warm climate, you want a low SHGC to reduce heat gain in your home. A trustworthy window installation contractor can help you determine the best Energy Star and SHGC window options for your home.
In addition to these savings, there are three other not so obvious benefits that energy efficient window installation provides.
Direct sunlight fades carpets, window treatments, paint and furniture. Installing energy efficient windows with a Low E coating can reduce the effect UV rays by 75%, saving you money in replacement costs.
Additionally, upgrading your windows is estimated to add $12,000 to the value of your home. If you are thinking of selling in the next few years, energy efficient windows are a great way to increase your property value and provide a great return on your investment.
Finally, energy efficient windows are good for the environment. They reduce greenhouse gas emissions and reduce the load on our power grid.
The bottom line is that choosing to install energy efficient windows is great for your bottom line and for the planet. It’s estimated that heat gain and loss through windows accounts for 25-30% of residential energy use. Keep more money in your pocket and create a healthier planet by investing in the modern technology of energy efficient windows.
GreenCal Construction is an innovative, eco-friendly home improvement company serving homeowners across Southern California. We believe that the best way to prepare our homes and our families for the future is to encourage green building practices, support environmentally responsible manufacturers, and educate homeowners about the latest and greatest developments in energy-efficient home upgrades.
Let us evaluate your current windows and show you the savings you could experience with new window installation. Connect with us today.
