Tax rebates out the window? True or False

Ye-haw, we got energy efficient tax rebates!
Now you can upgrade your home and get the fed to help with the bill. Here is a quick quiz about those new windows you want to get:

1. A Champion Windows TV commercial claims that your average house leaks as much air as an open window. Should you get new windows? True or False

2. Your rebate is only for specific window types that conform to u-factor and solar heat gain limits. Should all your new windows then be applicable for the rebate? True or False

3. Should you replace all your windows regardless of the type? True or False

4. Will installing thermal curtains be equivalent to new windows? True or False

5. Should you save your money for solar panels instead? True or False

6. Are sliders worse than single hung windows? True or False

7. Are new windows the most important thing to consider when doing an energy upgrade? True or False

Extra credit: Are clad windows better than vinyl? True or False


Answers:

1. F This Champion Windows commercial rightfully says that many homes leak approximately 4 sqr ft of air. Getting new windows will often have a minimal effect on air infiltration issues. Many window manufactures are falling all over themselves with misleading information. Please be wary.

2. F See “Dude, tune your windows”

3. F Many existing double paned fixed units with a min ½ inch air gap are only a little less efficient than new windows, especially on the south and north side.

4. T A sealed thermal curtain has the same r-value as an average energy-star rated window.

5. F Reduce your energy consumption first! Its pay back and carbon reduction per dollar is at least 7 times better than solar electric.

6. T Slider type windows are notoriously leaky after installation, avoid them if at all possible.

7. F Always consider the entire thermal envelope of your house before you begin trying to fix it.

Extra credit: T Wood clad and fiberglass usually have a better U-value, but also consider the growing consensus of vinyl as a carcinogen.