Did you know that energy-inefficient windows in your home can raise your energy costs by as much as 25%? If you’ve noticed a spike in your energy readings or your energy bill seems to be getting out of hand even when your usage hasn’t changed, you might want to check your windows for damage. Here are some of the most common signs of a faulty window:
- Condensation between the panes. Double-pane windows usually have inert gases like argon or krypton between the panes to limit the transfer of heat. If condensation forms on the outer portion of the inner pane, it means that there’s too much moisture inside the home. On the other hand, if the condensation forms between the panes of the window, it means that your window’s seals have broken, leaking the gas and allowing air in. This means your window is no longer functioning as its supposed to and will have to be addressed.
- Warped window frames. If a window frame is warped or out of alignment, a window will not close properly. If it’s not closed properly, it’s letting indoor heat out and outdoor heat in, disrupting your home’s indoor temperature. This forces your HVAC system to work extra hard to keep you comfortable so it’s using more energy than usual.
- Water marks on interior wall. Unless you inadvertently left a window open on a rainy day, there shouldn’t be any water marks on the interior wall directly below your window. The presence of water marks on the wall could mean that the window isn’t sealing properly when closed. The problem could either be faulty weatherstripping or a compromised structure.
As with anything, window problems are easier to take care of the sooner they are spotted. And because they’ll require less work and time, smaller problems also cost less. If you spot any of these signs on your windows, address them right away. The sooner you get your windows back into shape, the sooner your energy bills will normalize.
Want to learn more about window condensation? Head on over to Part 2 of this blog series.