Energy savings with windows

Windows can account for 10 percent to 20 percent of your air conditioning and heating bill. Most of this is due to air leaks.

Caulk and weatherstrip your windows to stop air leaks.

Close blinds and curtains during the day in summer will keep your room cooler so your AC will work less to keep you comfortable. Direct sunlight can raise the temperature of a room by 10 degrees to 20 degrees. Closing blinds and curtains at night during the winter will help retain the heat in the room. Opening the blinds and curtains during the day in winter will help heat the room. Curtains or drapes block the heat and sun more effectively than blinds.

Properly installed storm windows can reduce the amount of cooling or heating lost by as much as 50 percent.