How Much Do You Actually Save With Energy Efficient Windows?
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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, Pella, 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
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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.
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.