3M™ Window Insulator Kits can help reduce air leaks around windows as recommended by Seal and Insulate with ENERGY STAR.
Energy is lost through windows in two ways: 1) heat conducting directly through the window, and 2) cold air passing through cracks and gaps where window components seal and meet the house. To calculate typical energy savings from sealing windows with a 3M Window Insulator Kit, the following procedure is used:
- An average energy price is calculated for each state using a published fuel price forecast for winter 2008-09, published heating fuel type data (natural gas, fuel oil, etc.) for each state, and typical heating system efficiencies.
- Using published climate data for a recent 30 year period, the average outdoor temperature is determined for the heating season in each state. A government survey showing typical thermostat settings is used to define the typical indoor temperature.
- Energy savings for heat loss through conduction are calculated by using published data on window type and window insulation values combined with test data showing the insulation improvement with a Window Insulator Kit. Heat conducted through the window must be replaced to maintain a constant indoor temperature.
- Energy savings by reducing cold air infiltrating the house are calculated by using typical window air leakage values combined with a typical air leakage value for the Window Insulator Kit (not zero to allow for some error in installation or poor fit due to moldings, etc.; if installed correctly the air leakage with a Window Insulator Kit is essentially zero). Cold air that enters the house must be heated to room temperature to maintain a constant indoor temperature.
- Both energy savings are combined and a dollar savings is calculated for each state.
- Population data from the Census Bureau is used to calculate a population-weighted energy savings for all consumers living in the northern half of the United States, excluding Alaska.
Thus, a typical consumer can realistically expect to save $20 per window this heating season, but individual consumers may see savings either higher or lower based on their unique circumstances.
[Close]