Improving window energy efficiency doesn’t always mean buying new windows. If your current windows are still in sound condition, a few inexpensive upgrades can cut heat loss during Murray’s cold winters and heat gain during its hot summers. This guide covers the options that work, how to use them in each season, and the signs that replacement will do more for you than any add-on.
Why Windows Lose So Much Energy
Glass conducts heat far more easily than an insulated wall, so windows are often the weakest part of a home’s exterior. In winter, heat escapes through the glass and around the sash. In summer, sunlight pours through the glass and turns into heat indoors. Murray gets both extremes, so window energy efficiency matters in every season.
Before adding anything, seal obvious air leaks around the sash and trim with caulk and weatherstripping, since that is usually the cheapest fix. The upgrades below deal with heat moving through the glass itself.
Winter Upgrades That Reduce Heat Loss
- Insulating cellular shades: Honeycomb-style shades trap air in their cells, adding a layer of insulation. Close them at night, and open them on sunny south-facing windows during the day to let free heat in.
- Thermal curtains: Heavy, lined curtains that hang close to the window and extend past the frame reduce heat loss, especially when drawn after dark.
- Low-E window film: Applied to the inside of the glass, low-E film helps keep heat from radiating back outdoors.
- Storm windows: A storm window adds a second barrier over an existing window, and models with a low-E coating work best.
The Department of Energy’s window and door tips say low-E storm windows can save 12% to 33% on heating and cooling costs, depending on the type of window already in the home.
Summer Upgrades That Cut Heat Gain
- Exterior shading: Awnings, solar screens, and shade trees block sunlight before it reaches the glass, so the heat never gets inside. South- and west-facing windows benefit most because they get the strongest sun.
- Sun-control film: Reflective films reduce solar heat gain and glare, and they help most on east-, west-, and south-facing windows. The tradeoffs are a slightly tinted view and extra care when cleaning. Check your window manufacturer’s guidance first, since some warranties restrict aftermarket film.
- Light-colored shades and blinds: White or light coverings reflect heat away from the house. Close them on south- and west-facing windows during the hottest part of the day.
Match the Fix to the Window
Add-ons work best on windows that are still in sound condition. If the frames are soft or warped, the sash won’t close properly, or the glass has fogged between the panes, no shade or film can fix the underlying problem, and window replacement options are worth exploring.
When Replacement Makes More Sense
Replacement usually does more for you when:
- The glass is fogged between the panes, which means the insulating seal has failed.
- Frames are rotted, warped, or damaged beyond repair.
- Your windows are old single-pane units and add-ons haven’t made the rooms comfortable.
- Operating hardware is failing and the sash won’t close tightly.
- You’re layering several add-ons just to keep one room comfortable.
New energy efficient windows build that protection into one product, with insulating glass units, low-E coatings, and tighter seals, so you don’t have to stack fixes on top of an aging window.
Installation matters as much as the product. Gaps around the frame can let air in and undo the performance of a good window, so professional window installation is part of getting the savings you expect.
Getting More From Your Window Energy Efficiency
Start with the low-cost steps and see how your rooms feel through the next winter and summer. If your windows are past the point where add-ons help, contact Murray Window Replacement or call (385) 786-6447 to talk through your options.