Are My Windows Losing Heat?

Windows play a crucial role in keeping your home warm during cold months. When they lose heat, your energy bills rise, and your comfort drops. Recognizing the signs that your windows are losing heat can help you take action before the problem worsens.

Typically, a home can lose up to 30% of its heat through inefficient windows. A window's style may contribute to its heat loss. Double-pane glass performs better than single-pane glass at retaining heat. In some cases, heat is lost because of damage to the seals, frame, or glass.

Windows have a solar heat gain coefficient, which measures how much solar heat passes through the window into your home. Therefore, on a sunny day, windows can actually add heat to a home. Windows with a high solar heat gain coefficient of up to 0.60 could be beneficial, especially in cooler-climate areas.

The properties of glass that let you see outside while letting light into your home can leave windows susceptible to heat loss. Energy-efficient windows with glazing or insulating coatings help reduce this heat loss.

Some home inspectors can perform an energy inspection to determine whether you're losing heat through windows in winter by using a thermal imaging camera. They may use a smoke pen or a candle held a few inches from the window frame to look for any indications of a draft, which is another way to detect poor-performing windows. Additionally, a blower door test can be done to measure a home's airtightness and identify energy-wasting air leaks. Windows with ice buildup, or that are loose or rattling, are also indications that they may perform poorly and lose heat.

If you are concerned or suspect your windows are performing poorly, contact a home inspector to conduct a home energy inspection.