A home without windows would be a dark box.  We may not like to wash them, but we love to look out of them! Windows play a pivotal role in your home's comfort and energy efficiency, especially in Orlando's warm climate. What kind of windows you have, the placement of them, and the number of them can impact your HVAC system’s performance and your utility bills. It’s a fact. Windows affect HVAC!  

The Impact of Windows on HVAC Efficiency 

Windows are a primary source of heat gain and loss in homes. In Orlando, where temperatures can soar, poorly insulated windows allow heat to infiltrate, forcing your air conditioner to work harder. The harder it works, the more energy it uses.   

According to the U.S. Department of Energy, heat gain and loss through windows are responsible for 25%–30% of residential heating and cooling energy use. This means that inefficient windows can lead to higher energy bills, greater strain on your HVAC system, and less overall comfort inside your home. 

Choosing the Right Windows for Efficiency 

The type of windows in your home can make a significant difference in energy efficiency. Single-pane windows, for example, offer minimal insulation and are the least energy-efficient option, making them a poor choice for Florida’s climate. Double-pane windows, on the other hand, have an insulating layer of air or gas between the panes, reducing energy loss by up to 30% compared to single-pane windows. 

Another effective option is Low-E (low-emissivity) glass windows. These windows have a special coating that minimizes the amount of infrared and ultraviolet light that passes through, keeping your home cooler while protecting interiors from UV damage. For homeowners concerned about hurricanes, impact-resistant windows provide both storm protection and enhanced insulation, making them a great investment. 

Beyond the type of glass, the material of the window frame can also affect efficiency. Vinyl, wood, and fiberglass frames offer better insulation than aluminum, which conducts heat and can lead to greater energy loss. Proper installation is also key—gaps or poor sealing can allow air leaks, reducing the effectiveness of even the most energy-efficient windows. 

The Problem with New Windows 

If you have an older home, you probably have old windows with single pane-glass and wood frames. Even if you have a newer home, you can’t guarantee that the installed windows were top-quality, high-efficiency models.  

It would be nice to replace old windows, but it may be cost-prohibitive. The average window replacement runs from $300 to $1000 per window, and more for specialty windows.  

Ouch!  

What If You Can’t Afford New Windows? 

Replacing windows can be a costly investment, but there are still ways to improve your home's efficiency without a complete upgrade. Weatherstripping and caulking around windows can seal air leaks, reducing drafts and helping your HVAC system run more efficiently. Adding thermal curtains or window films can help block out heat, keeping indoor temperatures more stable. Exterior shading solutions, such as awnings or solar screens, can also reduce the amount of heat that enters through windows. 

Another budget-friendly option is to use insulated blinds or blackout curtains during the hottest parts of the day. These simple changes can help regulate indoor temperatures, lessen the burden on your HVAC system, and lower energy bills without the expense of full window replacements. 

The Long-Term Benefits of Energy-Efficient Windows 

Investing in energy-efficient windows may require an upfront cost, but the long-term savings on energy bills and increased home comfort make it a worthwhile consideration. Additionally, various incentives and rebates may be available to offset the cost of upgrading to energy-efficient windows. 

One of the major benefits of improving on your windows is that it reduces drafts and air loss that make your air conditioner work harder. The less your HVAC has to work, the longer its lifespan will be! 

With Orlando's warm climate, the right windows are crucial for optimizing your HVAC system’s efficiency. Whether you upgrade your windows or take smaller, cost-effective steps to improve insulation, making thoughtful changes can lead to lower energy bills, a more comfortable living environment, and a reduced carbon footprint.  

Call ServiceOne Air Conditioning and Plumbing 

Your HVAC is still the most important aspect of your home’s comfort and efficiency. Call ServiceOne Air Conditioning and Plumbing for maintenance, repairs, or replacement of your HVAC system.   

We don’t do windows, but we do everything related to HVAC and plumbing!