If you want to save money and energy, upgrading your windows can be a smart move. Windows can account for up to 30% of heat loss or gain in your home, affecting your comfort and bills. But how do you choose the right windows for the job? Here are some tips to help you make an informed decision.
Different types of windows perform better in different climates. For example, if you live in a cold area, you may want to look for windows that have a low U-factor, which measures how well they prevent heat from escaping. If you live in a hot area, you may want to look for windows that have a low solar heat gain coefficient (SHGC), which measures how well they block heat from the sun. You can check the climate zone map on the Energy Star website to find out what ratings are recommended for your location.
Para hacer el calculo y dise?o de un sistema de climatización lo primero es conocer las condiciones extremas tanto en invierno, como en verano.
Following are the methods to design energy efficient homes 1. Reduce the heating, cooling and lighting requirement by Passive Solar Design (Utilize the sun's path, orient buildings to optimize solar gain in winter and shade in summer and Incorporate shading device) 2. Design buildings to facilitate cross-ventilation and airflow 3. Use materials with high thermal mass, such as concrete, to absorb and store heat during the day and release it at night. 4. Incorporate solar/wind electricity or energy requirements 5. Use Energy-Efficient Appliances
Windows are made from various materials, such as wood, vinyl, aluminum, or fiberglass. Each material has its pros and cons in terms of durability, maintenance, cost, and energy efficiency. For example, wood windows are attractive and insulating, but they require regular painting and sealing. Vinyl windows are affordable and easy to maintain, but they may expand and contract with temperature changes. Aluminum windows are strong and resistant to corrosion, but they conduct heat and cold easily. Fiberglass windows are durable and stable, but they are more expensive and less available.
A la hora de elegir unas aventanas, es casi más importante que el material de las ventanas, es importante el nivel de aislamiento de estas.
The glass or glazing of your windows is another important factor to consider. There are different types of glass, such as single, double, or triple pane, that affect the insulation and soundproofing of your windows. There are also different coatings, such as low-emissivity (low-E) or spectrally selective, that affect the reflectivity and transmittance of your windows. You may also want to look for windows that have gas fills, such as argon or krypton, between the panes to reduce heat transfer and improve efficiency.
The design and style of your windows can also influence their energy performance and appearance. You may want to choose windows that match the architectural style and aesthetic of your home, as well as your personal preferences. You may also want to consider the functionality and operation of your windows, such as how they open and close, how they provide ventilation and natural light, and how they protect against air leakage and water infiltration. Some common types of windows are casement, awning, sliding, double-hung, and fixed.
One of the easiest ways to identify energy-efficient windows is to look for the Energy Star label. This label indicates that the windows meet or exceed the minimum energy performance standards set by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the Department of Energy (DOE) for your climate zone. Energy Star windows can help you save up to 15% on your energy bills compared to standard windows. They can also reduce greenhouse gas emissions, improve indoor comfort, and protect your furnishings from fading.
Just installing new windows with great insulation performance but without insulating the walls at the same time may lead to mildew issues on the walls. New windows will change the climate inside, eliminate (unwanted) ventilation through gaps and affect relative humidity, which often causes such problems. So, it is important to assess the situation in general, for instance using special tools for calculating the temperature gradient in the walls (consisting of different layers with specific thermal properties). With this it is possible to check if there could the risk of reaching the dewpoint temperature (and so condensation) on the inside of the walls.