The Texas sun beats down on San Antonio homes nearly year-round, driving up air conditioning costs. As energy prices continue to rise, homeowners are feeling the pinch in their wallets. Excessive energy consumption strains the power grid and hurts the environment through increased emissions. There is an overlooked and underutilized solution that can significantly reduce energy usage and lower utility bills: energy saving window film for San Antonio homes. In this article, we will discuss how window films can help homeowners slash energy costs and achieve a greener lifestyle.
Sweltering Temperatures Drive High Energy Use in San Antonio
San Antonio’s hot semi-arid climate means scorching summers and high air conditioning usage. On average, San Antonio residents spend a whopping $160 per month on electricity, adding up to $1,920 per year! Air conditioning accounts for over half of an average home’s energy consumption during hot summer months.
Heat gain through windows can be responsible for up to 30% of residential cooling costs in Texas homes. Solar heat gain from windows places extra demand on A/C systems. This leads to longer runtimes which consume more electricity. Energy efficient window films provide an effective solution to reduce heat gain and lower energy usage and bills.
Window Films Stop Heat Transfer and Save Energy
Window film consists of a thin sheet of polyester material that is installed on the interior or exterior of glass surfaces. Window films work by reducing the amount of solar energy that passes through the glass. This stops heat gain and lowers the load on air conditioners.
Studies show that energy efficient window films can reduce heat gain through windows. This energy savings translates into lowered utility bills.
Beyond energy savings, window films provide other benefits like UV protection, glare reduction, added privacy, and enhanced aesthetics. The films help protect furnishings from sun damage. Window films come in a range of tints and can be combined with decorative patterns.
Types of Window Films
There are a few main types of window films that provide varying levels of heat rejection and light filtration:
Spectrally Selective Window Films
These films reduce solar heat gain by blocking infrared light, but still allow much of the visible light spectrum to pass through. This maintains views and natural light. An example is the 3M Sun Control Prestige Series window film that rejects up to 97% of infrared light.
Low-Emissivity (Low-E) Films
Low-E films are coated with a microscopically thin layer of metal that reflects infrared light. Low-E films like LLumar R20 reject solar energy while maintaining high visibility. Low-E films work great in dual climates to also reduce winter heat loss.
Nanoceramic Films
Advanced nanoceramic films like Huper Optik nano-particle films provide enhanced IR rejection. The ceramic particles absorb and dissipate heat.
The optimal film type depends on the specific needs and situation of a home. An expert window film installer can recommend the right product after assessing the home.
Professionally Installed Window Films for San Antonio Homes
While do-it-yourself window film kits are available, professional installation is recommended for best results. Trained window film installers are experts at perfectly applying the film with no bubbles or defects that could degrade performance. If you try to install the film yourself and something goes wrong, you could damage the product or your windows, which could be costly.
The installation process starts with meticulously cleaning the glass surface. Next, the film is cut to fit the exact dimensions of each windowpane. The film is applied using a special adhesive solution and a squeegee to smooth out any moisture or air bubbles beneath it. Then, our installers will clean up thoroughly afterwards.
When selecting a professional window film company, look for an experienced installer that has been in business for many years. Check for excellent customer reviews and satisfaction guarantees. The best window film installers stand behind their work. Reputable companies like ours happily provide references and proof of licensing and insurance!
Window Films Offer Quick Return on Investment
Adding energy saving window film is an affordable upgrade that quickly pays for itself through lower electricity bills. On average, households recoup their initial investment on professionally installed window films in just 2-3 years. Window films provide a simple way to add R-value and reduce heat gain without replacing windows or expensive renovations.
Big Savings on Energy Bills
Homeowners in San Antonio can realize significant savings by installing high performance window films. According to a recent study, window films have the ability to reduce energy usage by up to 44%.
We recommend contacting our window film experts for a no obligation, in-home consultation. We will assess your home’s unique needs and provide a customized quote detailing potential energy savings. Find out how much you can save on bills by adding window film!
Contact Us for the Best Energy Saving Window Film in San Antonio
With rising energy prices causing pain for homeowners, window films offer a simple and effective solution. Window films provide year-round savings by reducing heat gain from the punishing San Antonio sun. Homeowners all across the city including Terrell Hills, King William, Alamo Heights, Olmos Park, and more can benefit from energy saving films.
Take control of your energy costs and gain peace of mind. Call GreenLight Window Films today to schedule your no-cost consultation! Our San Antonio window film experts are ready to help you pick the optimal films to cut energy bills and maximize savings. Invest in your home’s comfort and efficiency with energy saving window film in San Antonio today!