With the cost of electricity on the rise, homeowners across the country are looking for ways to reduce their air conditioners’ energy use. However, purchasing more energy-efficient equipment will only get families so far. Taking additional steps such as installing window film can improve the efficiency of any air conditioning unit.
Wondering how installing window tinting for energy efficiency really works? Read on to find out.
What Is Window Tinting?
Window tinting is a type of film that can be applied over existing windows to reduce the amount of solar gain they experience in the summer and cut back on harmful UV light year-round. High-quality window tinting can keep a residential space cooler in the summer, protect belongings and residents from UV light, and make it easy to maintain comfortable temperatures throughout the home.
Types of Window Tinting
There are four different types of window films used to block solar power, but not all of them are equally appropriate for this use. Here’s what homeowners should know about each of them.
Low-E Window Film
Low-e window film is a good four-seasons option that helps to block passive heat transfer as well as solar gain, which makes it good for winter use in addition to reducing indoor temperatures in the summer. This type of window tinting typically comes in windows as a built-in feature from the factory.
Reflective Window Film
Reflective window film is more common in commercial applications but it can also be applied to homes. As the name implies, this type of window film reflects both heat and light back away from the building, which makes it perfect for homeowners who want to increase privacy as well as energy efficiency.
Spectrally Selective Window Film
Spectrally selective window film is a good option for keeping homes cool during the summer. This type of window tinting focuses primarily on reducing light from the UV range of the light spectrum.
Nanoceramic Window Film
Nanoceramic window film isn’t as common as the other types of window tinting described above. While it does reduce heat gain, nanoceramic film does not alter window clarity, which means harmful UV light may still be able to get through.
Additional Benefits of Energy-Efficient Window Tinting
Homeowners won’t just benefit from lower monthly bills when they have window tinting professionally installed. Reducing air conditioner use can also help to protect the equipment and make it last for longer, which means homeowners won’t need to worry as much about repair bills or the possibility of early HVAC failures.
Energy-efficient window tinting also looks great and can help to prevent intruders from gaining access to the home. On top of all of these benefits, high-quality and professionally installed window tinting can provide an excellent return on investment. Homeowners in areas of the world that get hot summers, which are becoming increasingly common, will also recognize the advantages of residential window film, making it easier to find a buyer when it’s time to sell.
Find a Reliable Contractor
Ready to start taking advantage of residential window film and the many benefits it confers? The next step is to find a reliable contractor who has plenty of experience with installing window tinting on homes. From there, homeowners can ask questions, request a quote, and schedule an appointment to improve their windows’ energy efficiency.
