Cold weather is already here or on its way in most areas of the country, so it’s the time to start prepping your home for winter. According to energy.gov, heating your home typically accounts for 42% of your utility bill, and windows can account for 10%-25% of your heating bill by letting heat out.

Check out these tips for your windows to reduce your energy costs AND beat the cold!

Weatherstripping

According to the U.S. Department of Energy, American households collectively use about 22.5% of the country’s energy, and unfortunately, a lot of that energy is wasted through leaky windows. Regardless of how new your windows are, it is advised to check for drafts before cold weather hits. To check for drafts, hold a lit candle up to your window seams on a windy day. Add new weatherstripping around windows where necessary to keep cold air out.

Curtains and Shades

Heavy shades can help prevent the heat inside your home from escaping. Keeping the curtains closed at night can also add an extra barrier to keep cold air out and warm air in. During the day, keep the south-facing windows in your home open to let sunlight in.

Window Film

Window film is an easy way to add an extra layer of insulation directly to your windows. Simply stick the film to your windows, and use a blow dryer to seal it.

Your windows will not be perfectly clear with the film on top of them, so you may want to first apply to a less visible window in your home to make sure the look does not bother you.

Storm Windows

If you have single-pane windows that you aren’t ready to replace, covering them with an exterior or interior storm window can help improve the efficiency of your windows. Depending on what type of windows you have, adding a storm window can reduce heat loss through the windows by 10%-20%.

Consider Upgrading

If the single-pane windows in your home are drafty, consider upgrading to double-pane windows made with high-performance glass like low-e or special coatings to improve your home’s energy performance. Gas-filled windows with low-e coatings can reduce heat loss by reflecting heat back into the room and are a good option for especially cool climates.

If you’re not ready to upgrade your windows, there are plenty of other ways to weatherize your windows to decrease your energy bill.

What tips do you have for saving money and staying warm in the winter? Let us know on LinkedIn!