How Much Do You Actually Save With Energy Efficient Windows?

From Dan on October 5th, 2009 in Window Replacement

You hear it time and time again: “Installing new windows is one of the best energy efficient upgrades you can make.” As it happens, that is a very true statement. But do you every wonder how much you really save after a window replacement?

In reality, every home’s savings will be a little different. Much depends on your climate, how inefficient the old windows are and what type of windows you upgrade to. Most of us that want a window upgrade are currently dealing with old wood windows, aluminum windows or any single-pane window that just isn’t cutting it.

Fortunately, the people at Energy Star – a good benchmark for energy efficient windows – have done the math on this one. They’ve compiled an array of estimates for energy savings and even adjusted them for different regions of the country. Overall, says Energy Star, you will save $126-$465 per year if you replace single-pane windows with Energy Star certified replacement windows. Furthermore, you’ll save $27-$111 if you upgrade from double-pane clear-glass (no Low-E coating) windows.

That wide margin is a result of the many climate variations we experience in the United States. Here is a breakdown by region of estimated yearly savings from Energy Star rated windows:

Savings certainly do vary, but no matter where you live, there are savings to be had from energy efficient window upgrades. And remember that these are yearly savings, so they’ll compound over time.
Finding energy efficient windows that meet or exceed Energy Star standards is no longer difficult. All the top brands (Andersen, Milgard, et al) offer qualifying windows. Until the end of 2010, energy efficient window purchases are eligible for up to $1,500 in federal tax credits as well. So, a homeowner in North Carolina, for example, could stand to save or recoup upwards of $2,000 within a year of installing energy efficient replacement windows. And the savings continue to add up from there.

Photo Credits: Crystal Window & Doors, Energy Star

6 Responses to “How Much Do You Actually Save With Energy Efficient Windows?”

Paul Says:

October 6th, 2009 at 12:13 am

I didn’t notice a great savings when I installed replacement windows in my home in Texas. However, the look of my house changed dramatically for the better and now all of the windows work as they should.

Dan Says:

October 6th, 2009 at 8:44 am

Not everyone will get the savings shown above, that’s for sure. These numbers are very much averages and depend on many variables, especially in Texas where there are something like four different weather zones. But Paul, you make another great point. With new windows you don’t just get better energy efficiency, you still get new windows and windows that work like new. Thanks for writing in.

Laurent Says:

November 23rd, 2009 at 7:35 am

Hi There. THe saving indeed are not that much. I used an energy modelling software (E-Quest just to verify the numbers) for the Miami, FL region, and the values for savings get somewhat close to the averages they have at the Energy Star website, which is around a $126. The total surface area of your windows determines how much heat you gain, but the difference between between single and double pane remains the same since your ratio is proportional (i.e. 2 /4 heat units vs. 4 / 8 heat units). What really determines your savings is the amount of solar radiation you get into your house (based on your location) and the outside temperature (determines heat losses through your windows). Other than that, you pretty much get new windows that look “new” and work properly since they put a lot of effort into making them seal tight.

HC Says:

September 16th, 2010 at 9:04 pm

I replaced 28 windows in a 2900 sq foot colonial in northern CT
and noticed about a 15% decrease in heating cost. I insulated my attic with R 48 and I noticed about a twelve percent decrease drop in my bill. I replaced all my doors with energy star doors and noticed an additional 10% drop in heating cost. I insulated my basement ceiling with R 19 and noticed a further 5-10% drop in my bill. My total heating expenses declined from 3800 per year to about
2500. The windows will help with deduction in heating expenses but nowhere near the savings that promoters tell you.

Michael C. Heck Says:

November 25th, 2010 at 8:06 pm

These chat rooms are pointless. What you have here is the blind leading the blind. Unless you are an expert and really know what you’re looking at, you will never know the truth. You’d be better off consulting an honest window professional. Of course, windows with a “hard coat” of Low-E will not improve energy efficiency that much. What you need is a “soft coat” of Low-E, a thick fusion-welded frame, and of course argon or krypton gas between the panes to insulate …

Cost-Smart Reasons to Swap Out Your Inefficient Windows | Calfinder Remodeling Blog Says:

May 13th, 2011 at 10:07 am

[...] better informed you are of your climate requirements, potential savings and window efficiency options, the sooner you can make a decision that works for [...]

Add your Comment

About the Author:

Dan Harding
I have lived from coast to coast; I've also spent time in Eugene and Lincoln City. I moved to Oregon about five years ago from Michigan. It was there, in Michigan, that I was tearing out some basement walls for a friend when I met her remodeling contractor...I've been in the trade ever since. I have always enjoyed working, playing, reading, writing, and the outdoors. I graduated from Michigan State University in 2002 with a degree in English and a focus on technical and creative writing. My interest in writing, carpentry, and remodeling led me to CalFinder.