Your window line item on your utility bill may be largely overlooked, but it’s estimated to account for up to 30% of energy loss in home heating and cooling. Window drafts and other window issues can be more than just uncomfortable; they can be money-draining. For homeowners looking for window replacement in Denver, Colorado, the savings have been proven.
What Can You Really Save?
The cost savings vary depending on what you replace. According to the Department of Energy, homeowners can expect energy savings of $126 to $465 per year when switching from old single-pane windows to new energy-efficient windows. The EPA estimates annual savings to be even higher, ranging from $101 to $583, depending on the home’s size and location.
Homeowners in Denver, Colorado, at the high end of this range expect the costs associated with poor window performance to be the greatest. Denver’s climate emphasizes the need for quality window performance year-round.
What Will Give the Biggest Impact?
All replacement windows are not created equal. The three features that make the biggest difference in replacement window efficiency for Colorado homes are the following:
- Double- or triple-pane glass – Double-pane windows reduce heat loss by 40% to 50% compared to single-pane windows. Triple pane does even better but is more expensive, with a 10% to 15% increase.
- Low-E coatings – reduce heat loss and block harmful UV rays. The higher elevation of Colorado means UV exposure is even more present than at lower altitudes.
- Argon or Krypton gas fills – Inert gas slows heat transfer and keeps a window sealed.
You should opt for ENERGY STAR windows with a low U-factor and an SHGC suited for mixed climates when comparing options for window replacement in Denver, Colorado.
Is The Investment Worth It?
Windows tend to pay for themselves in 5 to 15 years thanks to energy savings. The value windows add to your home (i.e., increased comfort, reduced noise, and higher resale value) make them an even better investment. For most Denver residents, window replacement is one of the best home upgrades that will yield the best value in both the short and long term.
If your home feels drafty in the winter or hot in the summer, your windows need to go. A professional assessment is a good first step.