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Buildings window film best energy conservation option

Published on March 12th, 2012 | by Zachary Shahan

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Window Film Most Cost-Effective Energy Conservation Solution, Study Finds

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March 12th, 2012 by Zachary Shahan 

 
window film best energy conservation option

International Window Film Association (IWFA) — yeah, I didn’t realize that existed — reported last week that “a comprehensive analysis of window film found it to be the most cost-effective energy saving choice for Californians when used in retrofit applications on homes and buildings.” Interesting.

Energy & Financial Savings

The paypack period for window film was identified to be less than two years, with up to 70% return on investment (ROI). Of course, construction details, location, and window film used have an effect on the matter and can alter the energy savings and ROI.

Window Film’s Benefits

How does wind film help? Window film reduces solar heat gain while still letting in light. As a result, it lowers residents’ and businesses’ air conditioning and lighting costs. Window film also helps to cut out glare and UV exposure.

Combine window film with some white roofs and energy-efficient appliances you’ll have a pretty rockin’ electricity bill!

The Window Film Analysis

The analysis, conducted by ConSol, “compared installing window film on existing structures in the state to other traditional energy saving techniques such as updating HVAC systems, air sealing and caulking, and adding R-38 ceiling insulation, and found that window film came out ahead.”

“With over 70 percent of the buildings and homes in the California market having been constructed before 1980, window film has to be high on the list for every building retrofit project across the state,” said Mike Hodgson, president of ConSol.

The full report can be read on the IWFA site if you’re interested in more details.

Source: IWFA | Image: Large windows & home courtesy shutterstock

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About the Author

spends most of his time here on CleanTechnica as the director/chief editor. Otherwise, he's probably enthusiastically fulfilling his duties as the director/editor of Solar Love, EV Obsession, Planetsave, or Bikocity. Zach is recognized globally as a solar energy, electric car, and wind energy expert. If you would like him to speak at a related conference or event, connect with him via social media. You can connect with Zach on any popular social networking site you like. Links to all of his main social media profiles are on ZacharyShahan.com.



  • http://www.conveniencegroup.com/ Solar Window Film

    Solar Window films is great. I’ve been reading about it for a while now and I’m considering installing it in my Toronto office. I’m not sure if you’ll know this but will the Canadian government provide any incentives for installing it? (tax credits for example)

    • Ron Phelps

      Good morning. Yes there is a rebate program. Can you please call me at 416-948-0719 to discuss? We upgrade a lot of large commercial building envelopes in Toronto.

      Or please email ronphelps@3m.com

      Thank you.
      Ron

  • http://cleantechnica.com/ Zachary Shahan

    Thanks.

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