Hot Weather is Coming: Is your house ready to beat the heat?

by Gates Dearen

After the Winter, when people no longer need to run their AC unit so much to heat their homes, many start thinking about how to reduce their energy consumption through the Summer months. Nobody wants to spend more on energy than they have to. Along with the AC unit, windows and doors are key components for keeping a home cool. Spring is a good time of year to check them out to see if they need cleaning or repairs, or to determine if they need to be replaced.

TAKING THE BITE OUT OF THE DOG DAYS OF SUMMER

By Gates Dearen

Man, it’s going to be a rough patch in Northeast Florida. We’ve had some scorchers already and it’s only the beginning of July. You might be thinking a trip to Antarctica should be on the agenda. 

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And we know what’s coming next; those dreaded summer electric bills. During the dog days of summer, you have to keep the air conditioning blasting just to keep your home habitable. If you’re wondering if there’s anything you can do to save energy and save money in the sweltering summer months, the answer is “Yes!” There are lots of little things we can do to reduce those pesky electric bills while maintaining a cool, comfortable home.

HAVE YOUR WINDOWS SPRUNG A LEAK?

Drafty, leaky windows can be the leading reason your home isn’t feeling as cool as it should. This causes your air conditioner to run on overdrive just to keep up.  This in turn pumps up your electric bills. Leaky windows allow the humid outside air to permeate your home, leaving it damp feeling and making it more difficult for your air conditioner to remove the overly moist air.

SEAL THOSE WINDOWS

Either replace your old windows with more energy efficient ones or seal the gaps with caulk and weather stripping. Before you do this you’ll want to make sure you’re dealing with a clean surface. This entails getting rid of the old flaky caulk and adhesive that is surrounding the window first. Petroleum jelly will help remove the caulk and adhesive. Then use a little rubbing alcohol to remove the residue left from the petroleum jelly. And there you have it, a clean slate for caulking and plugging the leaks.

Single pane windows are notorious energy hogs, especially older ones. If you can’t afford to replace them, seal them with clear plastic window film, using a blow dryer to shrink the film and get rid of any wrinkles. It’s advisable to seal the interior side of the window rather than the exterior as moisture can get trapped between the film and the glass. Now you’re on your way to saving money.

ADD AESTHETICS WITH WINDOW TREATMENTS 

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There are many options for window treatments these days that are both stylish and energy efficient. Finding the right window covering could go a long way toward saving money. There are single, double and triple cell honeycomb shades that block the sun while providing insulation to prevent drafts. Go window treatment shopping and see how much you’ll save in the long run.

CHECK YOUR DOORS

Could your entry door be part of the problem? Exterior doors have to withstand nature’s elements and often take a beating. Like windows, they can begin to leak over time, especially wooden doors on older homes. Ideally, if there is any real damage to your entry door, then it is probably time to check into replacing it. A stylishly crafted entry door can add beauty and elegance to your home. Most of the new models have energy efficient features. 

If a new door is not in your budget, there are ways to stop those leaks and keep your home at a steady temperature. 

Just like the windows, check the caulk around the door and see if there is obvious damage or gaps. Use a putty knife or utility knife to remove the old caulking and peel the caulk away. Remember to start with a clean surface or the new caulk might not adhere properly.

Weather stripping is another way to lessen air leaks through your door. A weatherboard seals the bottom of the door and directs rain away it at the same time. It can be installed at the base of the door with some screws and adhesive.  If you’re feeling really creative, the weatherboard can be decorative as well. This will add a touch of style to your home while saving on your energy bills this summer.

I’M TELLING YOU- IT’S YOUR AIR CONDITIONER

You know you need it, but it’s going to cost you. That machine in the closet or window works extra hard during the summer. There are ways to make sure it’s running efficiently. Did you know that A/C systems that operate at peak efficiency can save you up to 25% on your energy costs?

MAINTENANCE IS A MUST

Whether you have a central A/C, window or wall units, maintenance is important, and a little TLC goes a long way. If you have a central A/C unit, schedule a check-up with a professional. Regular maintenance can prolong the life of your unit for three to five years and have it running at optimum efficiency when the summer heat is at its worst. Make sure the unit is not blocked by shrubbery or other objects which decrease airflow and make the unit run hotter.  This will damage the unit over time. If you have window units, there are many easy ways to keep them working in top form.

TREAT YOUR AIR FILTER WITH RESPECT

The air filter has a very important role in the A/C unit and if it is dirty or past its prime, it can place significant stress on the entire system. A dirty or clogged filter will cause your air conditioner to work harder to cool your home.  A clogged filter can even cause the unit to freeze solid.  The harder they work, the less efficient they will be and the more frequently they will break down, frequently on one of the hottest days of the year.

Most air filters can be reached by removing the front grill or they are designed to slide out of the side of the unit. If your unit’s filters are designed to be replaced, you should perform this task once a month during the summer.  If it’s made of a synthetic material, then it should be cleaned with a proper solution and a soft cloth. Now you have an unobstructed filter that will help to keep your unit running efficiently.

While the grill cover is off, just go ahead and gently clean the coils to rid them of dust and debris and you have come one step closer to saving on your energy bills.

STAY COOL BY TURNING UP THE THERMOSTAT- REALLY? 

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You can still stay cool and comfortable in your home by turning up the thermostat by using ceiling fans and tower fans. Yes, it’s true and it works. Using the fan and the air conditioner together means that you can set the thermostat to a higher temperature. The fan circulates the cool air which makes you feel cooler. It also gives that “evaporation” effect when perspiration evaporates on your skin.

The U.S Department of Energy suggests keeping the thermostat at 78 degrees when you are home and awake and turning it up a few more degrees when you are away or sleeping. Raising your thermostat just a few degrees will make a significant difference in your energy bills. This is one government decree you‘ll be happy to obey.

In this article, I’ve discussed a few of the ways to save money on those dreaded energy bills during the dog days of summer. Little things can go a long way. Why not give them a try?

Until the next time. 

If you would like to receive an official factory authorized 30% discount coupon for your next window replacement purchase, print out this article with the coupon on it  and bring it with you when visiting HomeRite.

Here are some related article you may want to also read.  Small Windows That Make a Big Statement, How Do You Check for a Leaky House? and Enhance Your Home’s Curb Appeal. 

Gates Dearen is the co-owner of HomeRite Windows and Doors in Jacksonville, Florida. Owners Dearen and Richard Walden have been serving the building products industry in Florida for over 25 years. They know the products, the industry, the market and what adds great value to a home. Their approach is somewhat different than others.  They strive to match the homeowner with the right windows and doors for their home and budget.  They know that some home improvement projects can be a hassle.  They strive to make the process pleasant with first-rate, energy efficient products; affordable prices; and expert, award-wining installers that employ the best practices and who respect your home as if it were their own.

The Top 5 Questions to Ask When Replacing Your Windows and Doors

By Gates Dearen

Photo Credit: nelsonwindow.com

You’ve noticed that your doors and windows are letting in the elements, or are bringing down the overall appearance of your house. You’ve decided to replace them, so all you need to do is measure each window and door and then head out to the nearest hardware superstore, right? 

Wrong! It’s important to assess your home’s individual needs and to understand the best solutions for energy efficiency, as well as home security. We have compiled a list of the most important questions to ask as you choose your replacement windows and doors.

What is my budget?

While it may be tempting if you are on a tight budget to “go cheap” when replacing your windows and doors, a better plan may be to choose the best windows and doors you can afford now for part of your house, and wait until you can do the same for the rest of the house later. High-quality windows and doors are an important investment in your home’s appearance, security, and energy efficiency. As with most purchases, spending a little more on the front end can reap greater benefits down the road. A windows and doors professional can help you to determine which should be replaced first and which can wait.

What features are important to me?

The features you choose are largely a matter of personal taste (unless you have children, in which case safety is also important). Work with a professional to decide which features will increase your comfort and your windows’ and doors’ function and durability. Single-hung windows open from the bottom only. Double-hung windows can open from the top or the bottom. Again, it’s all about preference. If you want to transform a simple opening into a stunning room accent, you can choose from a variety of custom shapes for your windows. 

When it comes to entry doors, there are also many options. Maybe you want a standard solid door with small windows at the top. Or maybe you prefer something a bit more reflective of your personal style, such as a door with a stained glass insert or a decorative lockset. Look at your options and find the door that says “home” to you. Many people prefer to spend a great portion of their budget on an entry door over other doors and windows in their homes because it’s the first thing they (and their guests) see upon arriving at their home. Again, it just depends on what you like.

Patio doors offer fewer options aesthetically speaking, but do differ in terms of safety features such as shatter-proof glass and functionality. Do your homework. Here in Florida it’s especially important that your patio door is made of impact-resistant glass. Low-e coatings and energy-star ratings are also important, but we’ll get to those later. Beyond these features, the options include clear glass or obscure glass, which provides additional privacy.

Do the windows and door glass have a Low-e coating?

Low-e, or Low-emissivity, refers to glass panels’ ability to reflect light. Low-emissivity windows and doors cause heat to be reflected off, rather than allowing it to collect and “seep through” (be emitted) into the home. The Low-e coating keeps the heat from being absorbed and emitted, instead reflecting it away from the glass. This technology is related to the insulation used in spacecraft to keep heat from accumulating on both reflective surfaces, inside and outside, but actually the application of the technology is more complicated in windows and doors because glass has such a high level of emissivity, thus posing the challenge of maintaining Low-e while letting in light. Manufacturers of high-quality windows and doors apply coatings to reflect radiant energy, which helps to keep heat on the same side of the glass it’s coming from – outside in summer, inside in winter – while allowing light to pass through. This improves thermal efficiency (insulating properties) because radiant heat stays where it belongs, outside or inside depending on the season and the weather.

What energy-efficiency ratings do these windows and doors have?

There are several standards set by the industry that let you know your windows and doors will work hard to save energy (and money in cooling/heating costs). The one you’re probably most familiar with is the Energy Star rating. In order to carry the familiar symbol (shown below), windows and doors must be, at a minimum, 15% more energy efficient than those without the designation. Most doors and windows have a sticker that shows their actual energy efficiency. If not, ask. Any reputable window and door professional will readily share this information with you.

Another performance standard is the National Fenestration Rating Council (NFRC) Certification. This is a non-profit group that, as stated in their website, “empowers consumers who are in the market for energy efficient windows, doors, and skylights. When you see the NFRC label on these products, this is your assurance that it’s going to perform the way it’s advertised to perform.” (www.nfrc.org)

How can new windows and doors make my home more secure?

Unless you have recently updated your windows and doors you’ll find that security options have improved. When thinking about security, think beyond the doors and windows themselves. Look for fire-rated doorframes and window frames, high-performance hinges, secure and weather-resistant thresholds and astragals, and of course high-quality locksets. Look for ease of use in window locks. Most new high-quality windows have simple slide or flip locks. The same is true for patio doors; while the older types may not have been easy to secure, the new ones are.

As for the doors and windows themselves, look for impact ratings, as well as long-term warranties. It’s a good idea here in Florida to choose doors and windows that will stand up against severe weather. Security isn’t just about keeping out human intruders. There are plenty of items in your yard that you wouldn’t want in your house if the wind picked them up and tossed them!

In this article, I discussed the top five questions to ask when replacing your windows and doors, and why those are important questions to ask. I explained what to look for as you plan out your new window and door purchase.

Gates Dearen is the co-owner of HomeRite Windows and Doors in Jacksonville, Florida. Owners Gates Dearen and Richard Walden have been serving the building products industry in Florida for over 25 years. We know the products, the industry, the market and what adds great value to a home.  Our approach is a little different.  We strive to match the homeowner with the right windows for their home and budget. Home improvements can be a hassle.  We’re here to make life easier with first-rate, energy efficient products; affordable prices; strong warranties and expert, award-winning installers that provide excellent service while respecting your home as if it were their own. 

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• Understanding the "e" in Low-e Windows and Doors
• What does the Energy Star Symbol mean on my Windows and Doors
• Add Beauty and Security to Your Home with a New Entry Door

Add Beauty and Security to Your Home with a New Entry Door

By Gates Dearen

Courtesy of
homeritejacksonville.com/

Could your home use a facelift?

One of the easiest ways to update your home, and add curb appeal, is to change your front door. According to the website www.energy.gov: “New exterior doors often fit and insulate better than older types. If you have older doors in your home, replacing them might be a good investment, resulting in lower heating and cooling costs. If you're building a new home, you should consider buying the most energy-efficient doors possible.”

Maybe you’ve always wanted to have a beautiful glass-paneled door but were afraid that wasn’t an option in Florida, with our hot and sometimes severe weather. You may be surprised to find that whether you prefer a solid or glass-paneled door, there are many choices available that will make your home more secure as well as more visually appealing.