Energy Efficient Windows Massachusetts

Fall is rapidly approaching, and along with leaf piles, warm fireplaces, and kids in pumpkin costumes, this season brings cooler weather and higher heating bills. Most homeowners focus on reducing heating costs by blocking drafts, using programmable thermostats, and repairing cracked or broken windows and doors. All of these are good steps to take, and they are excellent steps toward lowering your carbon footprint. There are some other ways to reduce heating costs, however, and some may surprise you.

Little Steps, Big Savings
In addition to the energy-saving ideas above, there are some simple ways to reduce heating costs and save energy, which ultimately is good for the environment and benefits us all.

1.    When not in use, close the fireplace damper. The chimney is a rapid exit point for warm air. Leaving that flue open is the same as leaving a door open while the heat is on.
2.    Turn down the thermostat. When leaving for work in the morning (why heat an empty house?), and again before turning in for the night (blankets and warm pajamas!), turn the heat down. Some programmable thermostats have timers that will help with this task.
3.    Lower the temperature on your water heater. If you don’t use the hottest settings in your shower, you’re wasting energy. Turn the water heater’s temperature settings down so it isn’t constantly heating water beyond your needs.

Bigger Steps, Bigger Savings
In addition to the daily living adjustments we’ve discussed, there are some home improvement projects that can really go a long way toward reducing energy costs.

1.    Install energy efficient windows. Massachusetts gets so cold in the winter, yet many people think of energy efficient windows as a way of keeping the sun out and the house cool. In actuality, by installing energy efficient windows, Massachusetts homeowners can reduce heat transfer all year round, meaning the house stays more comfortable no matter what the weather. This translates to lower heating and lower cooling costs, which means big savings on energy bills.
2.    In addition to adding energy efficient windows, Massachusetts homeowners should consider energy efficient (also called high efficiency) appliances. Old furnaces are like old cars: inefficient fuel hogs. A new furnace will pay for itself in less time than you’d think, and it’ll help you get the most out of those new windows as well.
3.    Keep up with maintenance. Just by installing high efficiency appliances and energy efficient windows, Massachusetts homeowners will save money. But even these top-of-the-line devices need proper maintenance for their full benefits to be realized. Have your HVAC system, ductwork, fans, and major appliances inspected annually and any time you notice a change in their level of function.

For more information about how you can save money on heating costs, or to learn more about energy efficient windows, Massachusetts homeowners can contact us at 800-975-6666 or fill out the form on the right side of this page for a free in-home estimate.