subject: Significance Of Windows In Conserving Energy [print this page] Home is a place where one is relaxed, and enjoys the most memorable moments of ones life. In the desire of availing maximum comfort, we do not shy away from using air conditioners and heaters all day long, to make us feel cozy at home. But these utilities come at a price, and when there is the time of paying the utility bills, we get cold shoulders.
Home efficiency is the need of the hour, which deals with efficient use of energy i.e. using less energy to obtain same level of energy service. The best way to achieve the results is through insulation. Insulation creates an envelope around the house and keeps the home warmer during the winters and cooler during the summers, resulting in low utility bills. Home efficiency can also be achieved by installingfluorescent lights instead of incandescent lights, as these use two-thirds less energy and lasts 6 to 10 times longer thantheir incandescent counterparts.
Another, efficient option of saving the energy and reducing your electricity costs is the use of energy efficient windows. In general, wood, vinyl and aluminum are used as the framing material in designer frames of windows. Among these, Vinyl is a popular material for making energy efficient windows, as it is reasonably priced and is very effective in saving the energy.
Installing energy efficient windows provides a facelift to your place, apart from offering you the desired comfort. What more, you can also avail window rebates if your windows are installed between 2009 and 2010 and are in adherence to the NFRC-certified energy ratings (U-factor of 0.30 or less and SHGC of 0.30 or less). These window rebates are applicable for 30% of purchase price for a maximum credit of $1,500.
Apart from window rebates, using doors and skylights that are qualified for energy efficiency improvements also make you eligible for tax rebates. Installing energy saving windows not only improves the aesthetics of your house, but also eases your life as these are installed with safety features to keep away burglars. Thus, just opting for energy efficient windows makes you entitled for window rebates and helps you save hundreds of dollars that you spend on your heating and cooling costs.
