Windows/Doors Energy Savings Options?

I'm confused about the payoff from various windows and doors energy savings options. Which options have high payoffs? For example do storm windows produce major energy savings?

Reply to
Jonathan Grobe
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If you don't have storms over single-pane windows, you'll notice a difference. I did not notice a big difference going from single-pane and storms to new Andersens. There probably was a small gain, but it is impossible to measure - especially with moving (up) energy prices.

Consumer Reports says that wood doors themselves don't lose much energy, but there is a lot of loss around the frame. I pried my casings off and sprayed in some foam insulation, and re-cased. I also added sweep/threshold on the bottom, replacing the old aluminum threshhold.and metal catch. Made a big difference in the draftiness. Again, unknown $$ savings.

Reply to
Buck Turgidson
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Reply to
John‰]                        

In general, if you have single pane windows, then replace them with "Energy Star" double or triple pane gas filled windows, then there will be a large savings on energy cost. Typically single pane windows will leak a lot of heat.

The way I look at these things is long term. Over the long term, I would like to reduce my monthly energy bills as much as possible. Some things are less expensive, others cost quite a bit.

But I plan to do everything I can as I can afford it. And to eventually have the most energy saving house within reason.

Over time this snowballs... As I complete one project and get it paid off - say replace the windows, I then have x more dollars each month I am saving on my cost of energy. Then I have more money available each month to complete other projects which will also reduce my energy cost - say adding more insulation in attic or whatever.

In time I will have done all that is reasonably possible to save on energy costs and will have everything paid for. Then I will have a lower cost of living. And more money to do fun stuff each month!

For example I have cut my summer electric bill in half by installing new Energy Star windows and buying a new Energy Star air conditioner.

There are plenty of energy saving tips at the following web site....

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Reply to
Bill

Depends on the condition of your windows.

If they are in good shape you will get a slight return from storms. If they have rotted frames or glazing missing, and your curtains move with every breeze outside, you will get a big return from storms.

No "one" answer for everyone.

eg, even the best sealed doors and windows do little if you let the cat or dog out every 15 minutes.

You have to evaluate your house as a WHOLE, to see where it's best to start.

I've seen idiots who leave every light in the house on, computers and tv's going while they go out for evening, and wonder why their power bills are still so high even with compact flourescents. Or spend thousands of dollars on ultra-efficient windows, then leave them open to let in fresh air.

AMUN

Reply to
Amun

Way too little information. Savings from Storm doors & windows depend on: the "tightness'" of the house, The insulation provided by the construction, The overall temperature difference, (indoor to out door), The local wind conditions.

In general, leakage at windows and doors is a large part of your winter heat loss, and reducing it pays off.

MadDog

Reply to
MadDogR75

Any window that you don't actually need to LOOK out of, you should stuff the openning with foam for the winter. Even the BEST widow is only about R-7.

Reply to
Goedjn

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