With winter weather on the horizon, many Americans will be utilizing their heating systems to maintain comfortable indoor temperatures. Even in cities like San Antonio, where we enjoy relatively mild winters, the temperatures can drop to into the 30's overnight, giving residents here a reason to bump up the thermostat.

But what if we told you that you may be running your heat unnecessarily? Energy Home Pros is an experienced window and door installation company, and we've seen our share of windows that aren't doing a sufficient job keeping the cold out. Your windows should work for you to keep heat inside during the winter months, and could be greatly affecting your energy usage if they aren't. 

How Bad Windows Can Affect Energy Bills

According to the US Department of Energy, heating and cooling costs contribute to over half of Americans' energy bills each month. In San Antonio, many homeowners run their air conditioners all summer long to escape the intense heat, but with winter around the corner, you may find yourself relying on your heat, which is typically more costly.

Drafty, leaky windows are one of the biggest culprits when it comes to the frequency with which we turn on our HVAC systems. If yours aren't sealed correctly or have suffered damage, you'll be using your heat far more often.

Window Maintenance to Improve Efficiency

If the best option for you this winter is to try and manage with your current windows, there are several things homeowners can do in an attempt to improve their energy efficiency. Some DIY repairs to consider include:

  • Air Leaks: Check for air leaks between your window frame and the opening in the wall, or between the glass and frame. Seal any leaks with caulking or weatherstripping.
  • Cracks: To repair cracked glass, seal the crack with clear tape or a window repair kit to keep any unwanted air out.
  • Hardware: Test out opening and closing your window to make sure all components are functioning properly, and add lubrication or replacement hardware if necessary. Otherwise, you run the risk of an improperly-closed window.
  • Upkeep: Continue to inspect your windows throughout the winter and try to clean them regularly, every one to two weeks.

In some cases, these repairs won't suffice and your drafty windows will persist. If this happens to you, you may want to consider the overall performance of your window.

Different Window Styles and Their Efficiency

Cheap windows, like single-pane windows, were once the standard back in the day, but don't provide much functionality besides protection from light wind and rain. Most homeowners now have double-pane windows installed, where there are two sheets of glass sandwiched in the window frame. Not all double-pane windows are equal, though. For the best energy efficiency this winter, look for an ENERGY STAR rating on any potential windows you purchase. ENERGY-STAR standards require that a window be double or even triple-paned, and come with additional features such as:

  • Spacers Between Panes to Prevent Heat or Condensation
  • Insulated Window Frames to Reduce Heat Transfer
  • Inert Gas-Filled Chambers Between Glass Panes
  • Special Glass Coatings to Reflect UV Rays and Heat

Get an Energy-Efficient Window Upgrade

In areas like San Antonio, with intense heat in the summers and cool temperatures in winter, an energy-efficient window installation could make a significant difference for homeowners looking to lower their monthly utility bills. These special windows are designed specifically to keep heat transfer from occurring, which makes it much easier to achieve the perfect indoor temperature without relying on your HVAC system.

Energy Home Pros have over 75 years of combined experience installing energy-efficient windows in the San Antonio area, and understands the standards needed for homeowners in our region. We have an A+ rating and accreditation with the BBB for our high-quality work, and will custom fit your new windows to your home to ensure an airtight fit, eliminating the chance of a draft making its way through.

Reach out to Energy Home Pros today for a free estimate on a window replacement, and learn more about our energy-efficient window products and how they can help keep your San Antonio home cozy all winter long!