While there are many beautiful things to look forward to, a mounting energy bill is not one of them. Unfortunately this is the reality for many Orange County homeowners year after year for simply trying to keep their home cozy as the temperatures drop. So how do you avoid breaking the bank just to get through the winter? You can start by taking a second look at your windows. According to the American Energy Association (AEA) nearly 60% of the energy wasted in the average American household escapes through its windows. That’s a major chunk of your bill when you think about it. To help, we have put together a short checklist to help ensure your windows are up to the job this winter.

 

Consider Past Winters

A quick review of past winters may be the first clue to how your windows are performing when weather drops. If every year your home seems chilly despite numerous efforts to warm it up, you may already have some drafts present, and if these drafts aren’t taken care of, they will only become worse over time.

 

Check Your Window Glass for Moisture

You’ll know your windows current status by simply looking at their glass. If you notice drops of moisture stuck between the window panes then you can take it as a sign that your window frames have absorbed excess moisture. This means there is warping, rotting, and/or distorting within the frame, which quickly leads to gaps and drafts. Once such weather damage occurs, you can bet your heating efforts are going straight out the window. So remember, while it may look like a few innocent drops, they are the early signs of a much greater problem.

 

Try the Candle Test

One of the easiest ways to test your windows for drafts is by performing a simple candle test. Take a lit candle (or lighter) and pass it in front of the edges of your window frame. Pay close attention to see if the flame flickers (or even worse, blows out) in certain spots. This is a clear sign that there is a draft present and your windows aren’t properly insulating.

 

See How it Feels to Open Your Windows

There’s nothing wrong with some slight resistance while opening and closing your windows, and in many cases this keeps them safe. However if opening and closing your windows feels like a workout, there is likely a bigger problem at hand. If your window becomes easily jammed, then it probably isn’t fully closing, meaning a great deal of your heating efforts are escaping your home.

 

While there are a number of solutions and ways to treat your windows for the winter, most of these solutions are short term and expensive. The best way to reduce those pricey bills is by purchasing new energy efficient windows for your home. At Pacific Shores Windows & Doors you’ll find the right windows for keeping your home cozy and warm. To get started, just call (714) 841-2228 or stop by our showroom floor located at 10573 Ellis Ave Fountain Valley, CA 92708.

For details, you can check Orange County, CA windows.