How to Calculate How Much Energy You’ll Save with Replacement Windows

Suburban home with large windows

There’s not much worse than drafty windows. Not only are they chilly during the winter, and hot during the summer, but they send your energy bills through the roof. Luckily, replacing windows is widely lauded as one of the easiest ways to save money on heating and cooling bills. But just how much will new replacement windows save you on energy? Your exact savings will depend on many factors, which New Jersey Siding & Windows, Inc. explains how you can calculate the cost.

Quality of the Old Windows

In part, your total savings will depend on how bad your old windows are. When figuring out how much you’ll save, start by assessing your old windows for efficiency. Look for the following qualities:

  • Frames: Many old windows have aluminum frames. Metal is conductive, meaning heat can easily pass through. Modern frame materials, like vinyl or composite, are much more efficient.
  • Panes: Early modern windows have two layers of glass with dead air between them, creating better insulation for your home. Older windows, however, often only have one pane – and more leaks.
  • Advanced glass: The most energy-efficient windows are manufactured with a dense gas between the panes, like argon or krypton, which slows energy transference further.

Savings for old windows can be anywhere from $126 to $465 per year, according to the United States Department of Energy.

How Many You’ll Replace

The more windows you replace, the more you’ll save over time. This is especially true for homes with many old windows. Replacing them all is the best way to create big savings on energy, but even a few windows can make a big difference.

Of course, replacing windows can be costly. If you can’t afford to replace them all in one go, it may be wiser to do a few at a time and watch your savings grow with each new installation. Focus on replacing the oldest windows first to make sure your investment pays back.

Quality Installation

Finally, your energy savings don’t only depend on the new windows themselves. How the replacements are installed can make a huge difference. Doing it yourself might be cheaper, but the handiwork of an amateur can leave gaps you might not notice until it’s too late.

Instead, hire an experienced contractor to make sure your new replacement windows are as airtight as can be. At New Jersey Siding & Windows, Inc., we serve northern New Jersey with window replacements. We’ll set you up with the most energy-efficient windows in stock and make sure they’re installed properly so you can maximize your savings. Still wondering how much new replacement windows will save you on energy? Contact us today to learn more.