Old windows can let in drafts and spike your energy bills due to their inefficiency, and this can cost you thousands of dollars over the years. Thankfully, modern windows are substantially more efficient thanks to advancements in production technology. That being said, it is still a wonderful idea to understand how to measure the efficiency of your windows and know when your replacement windows are underperforming.
Testing Your Window’s Efficiency
The easiest way to check your window’s performance is to inspect them yourself and look for signs of damage. Disintegrating caulk and damaged glazing around the panes of window glass are clear signs that your windows are in desperate need of repair. You may also see a jump in your utility bills when the weather drops or a clear draft inside can be a sign of heat loss.
There is also a smoke test you can perform with a few sticks of incense and about an hour of free time. To run this test, close all windows and doors in your home, and make sure your furnace and water heater are turned off as well as all other appliances. Turn on your home’s exhaust vents and then walk around your home with the incense burning near the edges of your windows. If the smoke is blown toward your home, you can detect exactly where the leaks are located and which windows are running up the energy costs.
There are also more high-tech tools that can be used, such as an infrared laser thermometer that clearly reads the temperature around each window. If you would like assistance with reading your window’s effectiveness and marking your home more comfortable, call Olson for a free consultation! We have been installing energy-efficient windows for decades, and know exactly when efficient window replacements are needed.
