Global Windows Sheffield answers questions on the energy crisis: How much can I save by replacing my windows?

Even with household energy bills now frozen at £2,500, there’s no doubt that most of us will be worse off this winter, with those living in older, poorly insulated properties paying the highest prices.

To prepare, most people will be looking to lower their bills by reducing consumption, putting the heating on less frequently, for shorter lengths of time, and at a lower temperature.

While these methods do help somewhat, it’s never been more important to properly insulate our homes – and replacing old draughty windows with double glazing is one of the most cost-effective ways to do this.

Why double glazing?

Typically, around 18% of heat lost through our homes occurs through windows – meaning those with single glazing or poorly fitted double glazing will be paying the highest prices to keep warm.

So why double glazing?

Liam Hulme, Managing Director of Sheffield-based window firm Global Windows, explains: “With a single glazed window, one glass pane serves as the barrier between your home and the outdoors, while double glazing uses two panes, as well as a layer of air for additional insulation.

“This is also the case for the window frame itself – unlike single glazing, double glazed window frames provide more space to include an insulating framework.

“Essentially, double glazing is effective because while glass is a good conductor of heat, air is not. The air pocket between the two panes of glass therefore creates a seal against the outdoors, reducing the transfer of heat.

“Double glazed windows are also filled with argon gas – and while this may slightly increase the cost of a new window, it does improve energy ratings in the long run.”

How much could I save?

There’s no question that replacing windows will make a huge difference to heat retention – but by how much could they actually keep the bills down?

According to a recent government report, by installing double glazing in entirely single-glazed houses, a homeowner living in a detached home could save up to £155 a year. Those living in a semi-detached property could save up to £110, those in a mid-terrace up to £85, while bungalow residents could save up to £75 a year.

“At Global Windows, all our window styles are A-rated for energy efficiency, meaning our customers will benefit from a warmer, more comfortable home, while saving on energy bills,” says Liam.

“We also offer our windows with a triple glazed option by adding a third pane of glass into the window unit, maximising a home’s thermal performance even further.”

While of course many similar companies offer similar windows, the team at Global Windows have taken this a step further by actually showing customers how energy-efficient their windows actually are.

Without getting too technical, the team uses infrared thermal imaging technology to demonstrate the heat being lost through old single-pane windows, and how this then improves with a newly installed double glazed unit.

Invest today

“With energy prices set to go through the roof in coming months, it’s vital that homeowners are prepared, and investing now in quality double glazing is an important step in avoiding those soaring bills,” says Liam.

“It’s something that could potentially save you hundreds of pounds, which during the current cost of living crisis, goes a long way.”

Visit www.global-windows.co.uk.